Is it legal for a teacher to record a book on tape?

Question

Is it legal for me to record myself reading books if I have a purchased copy of the book? It would be for a listening center. I teach 3rd grade and was thinking about doing this, but only if it is legal. : )

Answer 1

Copyright laws are getting so strigent.  I don't think we can do this at my school but check with a librarian.  They should know.

Answer 2

Thats a really good idea - the kids would love it. I guess it would be a good idea to ask this question again in the legal q&a section as someone there would possibly have a better idea of the legality.

I hope it would be ok - I mean it is for the benefit of kids and in turn society - be a pretty mean law to say you couldnt!! Maybe if all eles fails directly contact the publishers and ask.

Lovely idea. As a child I would have really liked that and for those children who dont get read to at home they will really benefit from having another opportunity in the day to have you 'read' to them.

Have fun!

Answer 3

Yes, as long as you don't sell it or profit from it in any way. As long as it is for classroom use only you will be fine. my son used to be in the accelerated reading group, and they would record readings for the kindergarten students to listen to during workstation or craft time.

Answer 4

It would depend on the type of book and the purpose.

If you are recording a novel to play the tape for your Class, but do not plan on making copies or distributing it, then you are ok.

If it is part of a text book for a student, then you are ok.

You can not read a novel into a recorder and use it year after year or distribute it to other teachers.

Answer 5

I have no idea if it's legal but I have done it a million times and thus far no one has noticed or cared!