FAQ: Copying Right with Archival Material
A common feature of reading rooms at special collections libraries & archives is that making copies is rarely as simple as finding the nearest photocopier.
Copying can be constrained for various reasons such as fragility of materials, cultural or access restrictions, and copyright law.
Often it's copyright law which causes the biggest headache for archival research, because for unpublished materials copyright protection can last indefinitely and different study and research provisions exist than those for published works (such as books and journals).
At Fryer, we have a reproduction service, if you are researching or wanting to publish material from our manuscript or rare collections.
Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions:
1. Why do I have to fill out an application form?
As well as recording the details and specifications of your copying, the form includes a copyright declaration. Declaring for what purpose you require the copies (for example for research & study) often affects whether or not copies can be made.
2. Can I order copies online?
You can download the form and return it to us at the desk, by post, or by scanning and emailing (all our contact details are included on the form). Please ensure that you have completed and signed the form in ink.
If there are no copyright, access, or preservation restrictions, we can start processing your order.
3. Do I have to provide proof of copyright permission before I get copies?
For unpublished materials (such as manuscript collections) Fryer library staff usually investigate copyright permission on your behalf. However, if you are using other special collections libraries, be aware that it can be your responsibility to provide proof.
4. How long does it take?
We aim to complete approved copy requests within ten business days. However, delays can occur if we cannot locate or contact a copyright holder. Contacting copyright holders can be an extensive process.
If you have a deadline, such as a submission date, please mark it clearly on the form, so that a library staff member can keep you updated.
5. How much does copying cost?
Our current schedule of charges is always available from our website. Prices range from 50 cents for pdf scans to $5.50 for digitization or professional photographs. While we always try to minimise cost, some items can only be photographed for preservation reasons.
6. Can I make the copies myself?
Where possible we allow client photocopying (of published material) and non-flash photography of certain items in the reading room. Always ask a Fryer library staff member before making copies, so that we can assist with any preservation or copyright requirements.
The Australian Copyright Council website is an excellent place to find out more information on Australian copyright.
If you have another question about copy requests at the Fryer Library, just email fryer@library.uq.edu.au.
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