Recently Asked Questions

Many libraries/archives hold unpublished materials whose creators are deceased, but are still protected by copyright since copyright lasts 70 years after death.

If a library/archives lacks a deed of gift (or if the deed of gift doesn’t explicitly transfer copyright), can an heir transfer copyright or otherwise provide permission for the library to publish/digitize/etc? In NY, are copyrights automatically transferred to heirs when someone dies? What if there is no will?

I am interested in developing a policy to outline who/how the library may collect donations on behalf of other organizations. We have always had a Lion's Club eyeglass donation box in the library. I inherited this procedure but I cannot find any policy that specifies the parameters of such an agreement. Does the organization we would collect for have to be a 501C3? I can't find guidance on what is acceptable, appropriate and most of all legal. Does the organization have to be one that reports finances to the state? We are a special legislative district library. I found some information from the state (below) but my legalese isn't what I'd like it to be. Thanks for any information you can provide. (PS this is prompted by someone telling a local group that we would let them collect old sneakers for their cause...Eeeewww!)

SECTION 174-B
Solicitation
Executive (EXC) CHAPTER 18, ARTICLE 7-A

There seems to be a trend for libraries that have Friends groups to hold fundraisers, donations, and membership drives at the library. In some instances, the library collects money for the Friends and pays it to them at a later date. Considering the cash handling procedures libraries have to worry about, is it allowable for libraries to collect Friends membership dues and donations then pay it back to the Friends?