[digital-copyright] 3D printing

["Corbett, Hillary" <h.corbett@xxxxxxx>]

Hi, all -

We are planning to launch a 3D printing service within the library in the
fall. I've been asked to assess whether use of the 3D printer can be
considered covered under our university's appropriate use policy
(<http://www.northeastern.edu/infoservices/?page_id=97>http://www.northeaster
n.edu/infoservices/a<http://www.northeastern.edu/infoservices/aup.html>up.htm
l<http://www.northeastern.edu/infoservices/aup.html>), or if the printing
system will need to include special terms of use. The AUP doesn't specifically
mention printing of any kind as being included in the use of the university's
"information systems," so I imagine printing so far has been considered to be
included in the broader "copying" context. But 3D printing is, as I've been
reading, not exactly the same as 2D in terms of what copying/reproduction
means (eg. not just photocopying architectural plans but printing out a scale
model from plans). Can we just post the Title 17 notice next to the 3D printer
as we would with photocopiers, etc.? Or does a 3D printer warrant special
explanation and acknowledgment in order to indemnify the university?

I would be interested in hearing your thoughts and experiences on this topic!

Thank you -
Hillary

-------
Hillary Corbett
Scholarly Communication Librarian | University Copyright Officer
Northeastern University
360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
v: 617.373.2352 | f: 617.373.5409
h.corbett@xxxxxxx<mailto:h.corbett@xxxxxxx>