Flickr - library!

Last few days I spend hours on internet trying to see how other library trying to associate with Flickr. Finding very often problems of faceless libraries:

"My point is that we have so much legalese that comes in that it cripples a library’s ability to operate in this way. You can’t put people’s picture on flickr because of their rights (even though they don’t care). It’s no wonder that libraries can often seem faceless or uncaring. All the legal makes it so you can’t do very much or you violate someone’s privacy. Libraries are afraid to use a patron’s email to let them know about an event at the library or services they may be interested in. The only pictures we can use are of the building or inanimate objects. The only video can be of library staff. I understand the privacy issue. However, the LIBRARY is faceless as a result."

or

"Carson covers the best ways to use photographs taken at library events and in the library for promotion:

It is clearly a violation of the right of publicity to use photographs from library programs in order to market or advertise the library or to call attention to future programming. You should always get written consent if you plan to use images for these purposes. If the subject is under 18, the parent or guardian should sign a consent form.

One way to get around this problem is to take photos that don’t include identifiable people. For example, you could take a picture of the crowd from the back of the room. That way, you won’t have to worry about being able to see faces...[more]"

I think we should be aware of copy rights and responsibility of taking the images. But still some libraries do the great job when it comes to promotion of their existence and events, like Lester Public Library!

How would you feel if you came across similar pictures of your library?
Well it's a tricky question, I think I would be proud that people try to capture moment or a piece of brick from the UL. But I wouldn't be happy if they would try to still a photo of a Manuscript or just 20th century book, there should be a limits of freedom!



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