Office of the Vice Provost for University Libraries

University Library Copyright Policies

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Title: University Library Copyright Policies
Policy Owner: University Library Copyright Project Team
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Others
Campus Applicability: Storrs and Regional Campuses
Effective Date: May 29, 2007
For More Information, Contact University Libraries
Contact Information: 860-486-2518
Official Website: http://lib.uconn.edu/

Background and Reasons for the Policy

The University of Connecticut Libraries provide high quality collections and information services in support of the University’s research and educational missions. In its endeavors, the University Libraries are committed to compliance with intellectual property law and the preservation of the rights of copyright owners and users of copyrighted materials. The University Libraries also seek to ensure that members of the university community know their rights and responsibilities under the provisions of the U.S. copyright law (17 U.S.C. Section 107), and are able to apply them regarding their use of copyrighted works.

Purpose of the Policy

These policies define the parameters of service provided by the University of Connecticut Libraries with regard to compliance with U.S. copyright law, the doctrine of fair use, and related exceptions in the law for library services.

Expected Institutional Outcomes

These policies provide basic information and guidance regarding the use of copyrighted material by University of Connecticut Libraries staff and users of library services. They answer many common questions regarding the use of copyrighted materials and provide contacts and resources for more information.

Policy Statement

These policies are maintained and updated on the University of Connecticut Libraries web site at http://www.lib.uconn.edu/copyright/.

 

Drafted by the Copyright Project Team 2/19/07 at the suggestion of:

  • Denielle M. Burl, Esq., University Legal Specialist; and
  • Rachel Rubin, Director of Compliance, Office of Audit, Compliance & Ethics

Confidentiality of Library User Records

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Title: Confidentiality of Library User Records
Policy Owner: UConn Library
Applies to: All Library Users
Campus Applicability: All UConn Campuses
Approval Date: March 4, 2026
Effective Date: March 9, 2026
For More Information, Contact: UConn Library
Contact Information: (860)486-2219
Official Website: https://www.lib.uconn.edu/

PURPOSE

To ensure the confidentiality of Library User records in compliance with professional ethics and applicable legal standards.

APPLIES TO

This policy applies to all Library Users who utilize or borrow resources from the UConn Library.

DEFINITIONS

Library Users: Any authorized user of the UConn Library, including University of Connecticut students, workforce members, community faculty, and community borrowers.

Community Borrowers: Non-UConn affiliates who are citizens of the state of Connecticut or a member of another eligible population who has registered for a community borrower card through the UConn Library’s Community Borrower Program.

POLICY STATEMENT

The UConn Library is responsible for ensuring that personally identifiable information related to individual library user’s use of library resources will be kept confidential to the extent possible under the law. Personally identifiable information is only used internally as needed for library operations and is not disclosed to third parties except with the expressed written permission of the Library User or as otherwise required by law. This policy aligns with the principles of the American Library Association Code of Ethics, which endorses the confidentiality of Library User records.

ENFORCEMENT

Violations of this policy and any related procedures may result in appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with University By-Laws, General Rules of Conduct for All University Employees, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and the University of Connecticut Student Code.

PROCEDURES/FORMS

Library user records are kept confidential and retained in accordance with the state record retention requirements established by the Office of the Public Records Administrator of the Connecticut State Library.

If the University is served with a subpoena, warrant, or court order compelling disclosure of library user records, then such document shall be promptly referred to the University’s Office of the General Counsel.

REFERENCES

American Library Association Code of Ethics
State of Connecticut Records Retention Schedule
UConn Library Community Borrower Program
University of Connecticut Student Code
University General Rules of Conduct

POLICY HISTORY

Policy created: November 21, 2016 (Approved by University Administration)

Revisions: March 4, 2026 (Approved by the Senior Policy Council and President)