Copyright and fair dealing

Our position

Universities understand both sides of copyright: users and creators. University researchers and professors are the creators of most of the content used on campus by students. That’s why they are seeking a balanced approach to copyright. And fair dealing is an important way of maintaining this balance.

Benefits to students

Maintaining fair dealing for education will ensure Canada’s young people continue to have the 21st century education demanded in our rapidly changing world.

Changing fair dealing would have a direct impact on the accessibility and quality of postsecondary education.

Digital disruption

University libraries have shifted from purchasing print to digital content where the terms of sharing and access are negotiated and controlled by contracts. Most libraries now have e-reserve systems making it easier for students to use library content on their personal devices 24/7. These systems are making printed course packs much less common.

Copyright compliance

Universities take copyright laws seriously. They follow fair dealing policies, invest in on-campus copyright offices and employ staff to educate the campus community about and promote compliance with copyright laws.

Recommendation

Universities recommend that Canada maintains a balanced approach to Copyright law by keeping fair dealing for education.


Download our policy brief Fair dealing works for more details.


The more access students have, to the widest breadth of ideas and information possible, the better equipped they are to cultivate subject matter expertise … and engage with fundamental debates.

A female pick a book in library

Universities have spent over $1 B in the last three years combined on purchasing library content – and it’s increasing annually.

What universities are saying

Follow the conversations on Twitter

#fairdealingworks | #faircopyright | #copyrightreview

In the media

Universities Canada