Printing, scanning, copying and copyright guidelines

Find out where you can print, scan and copy, including how to copy fragile items and copyright guidance.

Printing, scanning and copying

Locations and charges

You can:

  • print, copy and scan at all our libraries except for Blakelaw and Newbiggin Hall
  • you will need to be a library member and charges apply

Non-library members can:

  • upload print jobs on their phones and then print them at the library, using our cashless solution 
  • scan and copy documents

To use a computer to print documents, you must be a library member.

Guidance on copying

Always follow copyright laws when using our printers, scanners or copiers. 

Copying private study or research materials

Staff can make limited copies of:

  • books – a reasonable proportion of the whole work
  • periodicals – one article may be copied from any issue
  • accessible formats of library materials for a disabled person, if suitable formats are not available

You must complete a copyright declaration form.

Copying fragile or rare items

We cannot photocopy some fragile or rare items to avoid damaging them. This includes bound volumes with delicate spines.

You can use your own devices, such as digital cameras and personal scanners, to copy these items. Ensure you follow copyright rules when doing this.

Copying Ordnance Survey maps

Library staff can copy a small part of Ordnance Survey maps for your personal use:

  • up to 4 identical copies of an A4 size map
  • you must complete a copyright declaration form before getting the copies
  • copies cannot be used for planning permission purposes

You must follow copyright laws. We display copyright guidance posters within our libraries.

Breaking copyright law on purpose is illegal. Newcastle City Council is not responsible if you break copyright rules.

What copyrighted material you can use

You can copy from copyrighted material without permission if:

  • the copies are for private study or research
  • the purpose is non-commercial (not for profit)
  • it is only single copies of a fair and reasonable part of the work

If one of the above points is not true, you need permission from the copyright holder or you must pay a copyright fee.

Getting permission to use copyrighted material

You can get permission from:

  • the author or creator
  • the author or creator’s employer, if created as part of their job
  • the publisher or distributor
  • the author or creator’s heirs
  • an organisation representing the copyright owner

To find Copyright Owners use internet sources The Watch File.

If you can not find the owner of a copyright, visit guidance on gov.uk.

Using free licenses to share your work

Creative Commons offers free licenses for creators to share their work. You can search for works under Creative Commons Search.

For more information on copyright you can ask library staff for help or explore the following resources:

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