Copyright and Licensing: Job Growth Areas for Librarians

摘要

As gatekeepers to information and content, librarians are often at the forefront of intellectual property issues (namely copyright) relating to traditional and electronic forms of content. Digital content, and the way organizations acquire and use it,is creating new tasks and positions that may require librarians to learn new skills. Librarians are negotiating digital licensing agreements to acquire databases and periodicals and are ensuring proper use of various media, including videos and audio and text materials. They are educating patrons and fellow employees about copyright law and sometimes are clearing rights or providing permission to use content owned by their organizations. Working on copyright and licensing issues, librarians are, by choice or not, broadening their skills, assuming new responsibilities, seeking professional development opportunities, and (I hope) finding personal, professional and financial rewards.