Eric Harbeson
Scholarly Publishing Legal Fellow Authors AllianceBio
Eric Harbeson is the Scholarly Publishing Legal Fellow for Authors Alliance. Prior to joining Authors Alliance, Eric worked in libraries and archives for more than thirty years, and was widely known for research and advocacy work surrounding music and sound recordings copyright. At Authors Alliance, Eric focuses on law at the intersection of academic research and federal grants. Eric holds a JD from the University of Oregon, an MSLIS from the University of Illinois, and a Masters of Music in Music History from Cleveland State University.
2026 Presentation
Public librarians encounter copyright issues every day, from storytimes to local history collections, displays, and patron services. This session provides a practical introduction to the copyright concepts and exceptions most relevant to public library work, including fair use and other exceptions. Special attention will be given to issues that frequently arise in public libraries, such as programming, community engagement, and the use of historical materials. Whether you are new to copyright or looking for a refresher, this session will offer useful tools and resources for navigating copyright challenges with confidence.