Copyright and Image Usage Permissions

As you include images in Rutgers information and stories on websites, social media, and in other digital and print materials, you must do so legally and with explicit permission.

The unauthorized use of copyrighted imagery—specifically photographs, illustrations, and videos used without the necessary licenses or permissions—is illegal. Any department or unit found using unauthorized images will be financially liable for resulting infringement fines or legal penalties. Please protect both the university and yourself by adhering to the following guidelines.

Image Usage Guidelines

• Use University-owned Resources: Utilizing authorized internal resources ensures our communications remain professional and compliant with copyright laws.
  • Rutgers Digital Asset Library: Contains thousands of pre-approved photos and videos available to all faculty and staff.
  • Archives and Special Collections at Rutgers University Libraries: For university-related history or vintage photography, please consult the archives and special collections.
  • Adobe Stock: Rutgers employees can access royalty-free stock photography and video through the university’s contract with Adobe.
• Secure Usage Rights: Every outside image featured in published stories, social media, websites, and print materials must have written permission or a valid license. Your unit is responsible for the cost of any licensing fees and for retaining the record of permission for imagery used.
• "Found" Images Aren't Free: Taking an image from a website, Google images, or social media—even with providing a photo credit—does not constitute legal permission to use it.
• Financial Liability: The department or unit responsible for publishing unauthorized images will be responsible for any resulting fines or legal penalties. These costs can be substantial, from $1,500 to over $15,000, and are often non-negotiable.
• Don’t Ignore Infringement Notices: If your department receives a copyright infringement notice, contact the Office of General Counsel for guidance.