The Digital Collections Unit (DCU) is the primary provider of scanned images of
archival and rare materials in the University of Minnesota Libraries. It will provide
accurate copies of original materials within the limitations of technology. The goal of
the service is to provide the timely delivery of digital images to researchers at a
reasonable cost while preserving the original. Charges are based on the recovery of the
costs of scanning, handling the original, and delivering the image.
The University of Minnesota Libraries reserves the right to choose the method of
scanning based on the condition of the original. The Libraries may refuse to copy material
if, in the judgement of the staff, the material cannot be copied without harm to the
original (Mn Stat. 13.40, subd. 3, sect. 2), or without violating the U.S. Copyright Act.
Copies are produced with the understanding that the use of the images will be limited to
fair use as defined by the Copyright Act. Any other use is at the responsibility and risk
of the user. Patrons unsure about the copyright status of documents should consult with
the curator of the materials.
The University of Minnesota Libraries reserves the right to change its schedule of
charges at any time.
Use of an image from the University of Minnesota Libraries in any electronic or paper
publication shall bear the name of the archival unit followed by "University of
Minnesota, Minneapolis" directly adjacent to the image. Additionally, use of an image
on the web shall link to the archival unit from which it came. Any other use
shall be negotiated with the curator of the material; a use fee may be assessed in certain
circumstances.
Units shall complete an Image Reproduction Form and retrieve materials from the stacks.
They will notify the DCU of a job, and the DCU shall retrieve the material and form (or
the unit may deliver to the DCU). Upon completion of the order, the DCU will charge the
patron, deliver the files, and return the materials to the unit. Any special use fees or
use requirements are the responsibility of the unit.
The DCU uses the SOLOMON software, support by the Libraries' Business Office. SOLOMON
allows direct billing of CUFS account numbers for departments of the University of
Minnesota. Also, it permits credit card purchases. Otherwise, the business office will
bill individuals or businesses. Presently, the DCU is unable to accept cash or checks.
Scans produced for reference generally will not be retained unless prior arrangements
are made between the curator and the DCU.
