When the library does not specifically forbid ripping CDs, either spoken or in writing you can rip the CDs for personal use. You are a member of their library. They share their collection, you enjoy their collection. Has there been a court case about this issue?
That's what I thought. The RIAA website states that it is legal to make a copy for personal use of a CD which you own. The CDs in the library were bought with taxpayer money (those that were not donated) so one could argue that they are publicly owned. I have been unable to find any record of this issue going to court though. Also of note, it seems that many librarians adamantly believe copying library CDs is illegal. In light of that, I do not feel that asking my local librarian would yield the most favourable response (by favourable I mean "Yes it is legal.")
P.S. Thanks for the warm welcome!
P.P.S. Who knew there were so many SACDs in the library?
When for personal use only, fuck the librarians. If they can show the receipt and prove they bought the music themselves they have a point. If there is any possible objection it is that they fear that you upload music on-line to share it. That is understandable.
In the Netherlands the copyrights issue is so absurd (VAT, copyright mark-up, additional broadcasting mark-ups & Stichting Brein) that the copyright restriction lobby is indirectly accused of corruption, nepotism and lobbying in its own interest.
Combined with the taxation system of the Netherlands (direct income taxes, additional taxes, consumer taxes and other tax mark-ups) the whole copyright issue becomes too ridiculous for words and music lovers and collectors pay the price. Fairs and flea markets sometimes replace the once loved record stores with their quirks.
I just watched a documentary on William Tyndale. It just reminded me again of my love for accessible content without unreasonable restrictions and/or censorship. The way copyright issues are handled by some parties is saddening...
