May I send everyone a copy of a journal article for our journal club?
Answer
Electronic Articles
If the article is from a library or personally “subscribed” journal look at the journal or publisher web site for conditions of use. Typically you will find this under “Terms and Conditions”. The publisher will state if an electronic copy of the article may be sent to club participants or if the article URL (persistent link) can be sent electronically or posted on a password protected website i.e. Blackboard .
For example, Wiley allows distribution of digital (PDF) copies for journal clubs. However the American Medical Association only allows print copies to be shared and you may not store, reproduce, or share copies in digital form. Each publisher has its own terms & conditions of use.
Print Articles
A photocopy of an article found in a print journal may be given to each member as these copies are considered “one copy per student” under Fair Use and becomes the personal property of the member. Scanning a print article and sending it electronically to members is considered “making multiple copies” and is not allowed under fair use.
ADU versus Non-ADU Members
ADU faculty, staff, and students are allowed access to all subscribed library materials, both print and electronic. Non-ADU members may access library subscription materials when the member is on campus. They may make photocopies of print materials and may print out, email, or save to a portable device, i.e. flash drive using the library’s public access computers. Non-ADU (unauthorized) users may not access electronic materials from off-campus.