ABC Copyright Conference

Talk 1: Assessing the use of CanLit in teaching at Simon Fraser University (Jennifer Zerkee and Don Taylor)
Concerns have been raised by Canadian authors, publishers, and their collective societies regarding the use of their works in Canadian post-secondaries. In light of these concerns, we have collected and analyzed data on the use of creative and, specifically, Canadian creative literary works for teaching purposes by instructors at SFU, for the period 2018 through 2022. We are currently analyzing some comparable data from 2010 through 2012. Our definition of “creative literary works” includes novels, plays, short stories, poetry, and collections of each of these. Our goal is to understand and illustrate the prevalence of use of creative, and specifically Canadian creative, works in teaching at SFU, as well as any changes or trends over time (especially since 2012).

Types of materials for which data was analyzed includes textbooks ordered by the SFU Bookstore and course packs created by the Bookstore for purchase by students, and readings made available on reserve through SFU Library. We did not intend to assess whether and how frequently fair dealing is used versus transactional licensing where these materials were copied; instead, we simply wanted an overview of their use as teaching materials. In this presentation we will provide an overview of our methods as well as our findings, comparing the 2018-2022 findings where possible with those from 2010-2012. We hope that other institutions may undertake similar studies to contribute to a broader picture of the use of creative works in Canadian higher education.

Talk 2: Unlocking the Past: Copyright Challenges and Opportunities in Open GLAM (Roger Gillis)
In recent years, cultural heritage organizations have made significant strides in digitizing vast amounts of cultural heritage materials, paving the way for unprecedented online access. However, the complexities surrounding the usage, licensing, and ethical considerations of these digital resources remain a challenge for both institutions and users.

This presentation aims to shed light on the Open GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) movement, exploring its meanings, definitions, and the transformative benefits it brings to the cultural heritage landscape. Despite commendable efforts, and the many benefits that an Open GLAM approach affords, many institutions grapple with articulating and understanding copyright applications for their digital collections.

Key points of focus in this presentation will include the benefits and challenges encountered by institutions in embracing Open GLAM, real-world applications of Open GLAM principles, and considerations surrounding the Public Domain. Ethical concerns, particularly those related to indigenous cultural heritage, will be addressed as crucial aspects of the open access dialogue for cultural heritage. Overall, this presentation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the Open GLAM movement, offering insights into its practical implications for cultural heritage organizations, the copyright community, researchers, and the broader public.