The digital collections database is, deliberately, a database of descriptive information about digital resources that are owned, stored, and maintained on a distributed basis. This means that no single department owns the copyright or authority to reproduce every image, text or other object listed in the database.

Instead, each record in the database includes information about who actually owns the object, and which department should be contacted if you desire to obtain or use a copy. Many departments will have different policies and costs for permitting reproductions to be made. Some departments may not wish to reproduce any of their holdings.

Note that each record also includes a copyright statement, informing users that resources are subject to U. S. and international copyright laws. For more information on the copyright status and permitted uses of an individual item, or to inquire about obtaining a copy for personal or commercial use, please follow the instructions given in individual item records.