Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources
Approved by Library Services’ Faculty, December 12, 2024
Access to and use of library electronic resources is governed by license agreements, by Minnesota State Policies, U.S. Copyright and other applicable laws. Access is restricted to MSU authorized users.
Authorized users are responsible for their own acts and behavior when using library resources. It is the responsibility of each user to ensure that they use these products in compliance with applicable license terms, Minnesota State Policies, and U.S. Copyright law, and in any event, only for individual, noncommercial use without systematically downloading, distributing, or retaining substantial portions of information. The use of technology tools or apps such as scripts, agents, or robots, is generally prohibited.
Authorized users should refrain from using copyrighted or library-licensed works as prompts (in whole or in part) when using generative AI services, except in circumstances where express permission is provided from the copyright holder, or alternatively, a clear application of fair use or the TEACH Act is present.
Failure to comply with acceptable use policies could result in disciplinary or legal action for individual users or result in loss of access to resources for the entire MSU campus community. Copyright owners may seek additional remedies. Specific license terms detailing permitted and prohibited uses of electronic resources may be obtained by contacting eraccess@mnsu.edu.
Minnesota State Board Policies
- 5.22 Acceptable Use of Computers and Information Technology Resources
- 5.23 Security and Privacy of Information Resources
- Minnesota State System Office - Generative Artificial Intelligence: A Guidance Document on Policy Intersections, Considerations and Recommendations
See also:
- Copyright and Fair Use: more information on the creation and use of copyrighted materials at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
- “Pirate” Repositories: more information on illegal or suspicious repositories like Sci-Hub.
