Everyone who accesses other people's work needs to be aware of copyright. Copyright is what protects intellectual property from being reused without permission, either intentionally or unintentionally.

In your studies, you will mainly come across copyright when it comes to referencing and plagiarism. It makes sure you don't take credit for other people's work, but also applies to copying and printing text. Copyright rules state that you can only copy or print a short extract from a work. This could be 5% of a work, one article from a journal issue, or one chapter of a book.

There are exceptions when it comes to accessibility, as some people may struggle to read online or need a personal copy of a book. If this is the case for you, you will need to be registered with the University's Accessibility and Disability Resources Centre and then the Libraries Accessibility team will be able to help you.

Copyright is a complex field and we don't have the space to cover all elements of copyright here. There are various pages that can provide more information on copyright.

Copyright for Students: This LibGuide introduces students to using others' work, finding and using images, sharing and publishing, Creative Commons and FAQs around copyright.

Copyright for Researchers: This LibGuide introduces researchers to authorship and intellectual property, Creative Commons, terminology and more.

Copyright for Lecturers, Instructors and Teaching Staff: This LibGuide introduces those involved in teaching to using materials in lectures, providing course packs and digitised course readings, and supporting students with extra needs.

Copyright module: This 30-60 minute module is most relevant for researchers who need to protect their own intellectual work and use work written by others. Please bear in mind that this module is intended for information only and does not constitute legal advice.

Wolfson College copyright guide: This section of their LibGuide covers the essentials as well as using images.

Self-taught online Copyright and Licenses course: This course provides you with basic knowledge you can apply to your research practice. Target audience PhD students and Researchers, other Cambridge students and staff are welcome. 

Copyright helpdesk: If you ever need help with copyright, there is a copyright helpdesk. Just email them your questions and knotty issues!