MP3 Policy

Using Kazaa, Morpheus, Grokster, or other peer-to-peer (P2P) file transfer programs to download music or video from the Internet, the sharing of music and video files within the campus network, and other similar functions create significant issues concerning copyrighted materials and the protection of intellectual and creative property. As Christians, we should be above reproach in this area, regardless of how others in the world interpret or ignore the law. While these services and other websites make it easy to download music and video files from the Internet, many of the materials available for download are illegal duplications made available without permission of the copyright owner.

Downloading and other duplication of copyrighted materials is legal only with the permission of: (a) the actual copyright owner; or (b) a legitimate claim of "fair use." Therefore, it is the University's policy that music and/or video files may not be downloaded or otherwise copied from the Internet illegally.

The above policy does not apply to file transfer programs, such as iTunes, or web sites that lawfully offer consumers the opportunity to download music or video files. Any downloaded files, however, must be of a nature that does not violate Taylor's Internet and computer use policies.

Until it is determined that a curricular or co-curricular need exists for these services and/or adequate protection of copyrighted materials can be sufficiently assured, MP3 and other P2P network file sharing services will continue to be turned off. Please refer to the Appropriate Use Policy and the Open Letter to computer users found on the internal web server for additional background information about proper usage and stewardship of Taylor computing and communication resources.

University business and academic use of the existing bandwidth will take precedence over any of these programs, sites or services.

Questions about this policy will be considered by the IT Policy Review subcommittee of the Strategic Technology Planning and Assessment Committee.