Licensing Agreement
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˈlaɪsənsɪŋ əˈɡrimənt/
A legal contract specifying terms of use, access rights, and restrictions for digital or electronic resources that libraries purchase or subscribe to on behalf of users. Agreements define permitted uses such as academic research, teaching, and interlibrary sharing.
Plain English
A contract that sets rules for how a library and its users can access and use digital materials they purchase.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Libraries negotiate licensing agreements to balance vendor restrictions with patron needs for research and educational access."
Style guide notes: Use lowercase for generic licensing agreements; capitalize formal program names (License Agreement for Digital Resources).
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What key terms should librarians negotiate in licensing agreements?
Concurrent user limits, perpetual access, archival rights, course reserves eligibility, interlibrary loan permissions, and data mining allowances.
How do licensing agreements affect library patrons?
Agreements determine access availability, usage restrictions (printing/downloading limits), platform stability, and whether content persists after cancellation.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Significant for collection development, acquisitions, and management professionals handling electronic resources.
Required skill level: Senior