The use of copyright material for research and private study, criticism and review, and news reporting is collectively described as ‘fair dealing’.

Fair dealing in research and private study covers literary, dramatic, musical or artistic works but not sound recordings, film & video and broadcasts. Fair dealing in criticism and news reporting does include sound recordings, film & video and broadcasts.

Legislation is vague as to what is ‘fair’ and reliance is placed on guidelines issued by agencies and organisations representing copyright owners, and case law; see the Guidelines and Further Information page for a list of organisations and some published guidelines. UEA has produced its own general notice, copies of which are posted near reprographic equipment, indicating what it considers fair dealing for private study or research.

Copying for research and private study can include copying onto computer disk, provided that access is limited to the individual making the copy. It is best to store the file on a removable disk and not to retain it longer than necessary.

It is quite important to be sure to copy from originals. Normally, it will not matter whether the original from which you copy is from the University Library and its associated branches, a departmental collection, a personal copy, or a copy borrowed through Inter-Library Loan. Even for personal use, you should avoid copying from photocopies or hard copies of material from electronic resources unless the copy in question carries a clear authorisation to do this.

While it may be acceptable for someone to make a second copy for their own use or where multiple copies of a thesis have to be submitted, in general the making of multiple copies is not considered fair dealing.

Copying prescribed material for taught courses, by teachers or individual students, is not covered by the provision for private study.