A professor at my institution wants to use the series Charlemagne starring Christian Brendel in one of her classes this coming fall. She was able to locate and purchase a VHS copy of the series dubbed in English. The problem is that VHS support has become problematic on-campus because we are phasing out the technology. Because of this, she has asked me to transfer the video onto DVD. Since format transfers are in most instances a violation of copyright, I went in search of other solutions. The only other format available for purchase that I could find is a DVD edition in the original French; however, based on the product description and customer feedback I believe that this version has no subtitles. I contacted the company responsible for the English language version (Acorn Media), and they responded with the following message.
---------- Your inquiry regarding Charlemagne was passed along to me. Unfortunately, Acorn’s rights to the program expired many years ago, so I’m afraid I’m not aware of any current English-language release in America or elsewhere. As to copying for educational purposes, I’m afraid Acorn does not have any standing to address that question one way or the other. The best advice I can offer is that I believe that copyright laws sometimes provide some leeway for material that’s being used in an educational setting. You may want to pursue that angle, though, I’m obliged to note that I can’t speak to any specifics on that front. Best regards. ---------- I attempted to contact the original producers of the film (France 2 / Lux Spa / Rai Uno / Beta Films / France 3 / Pathe Television) but have not been successful. So, I have four questions: 1. Does anyone have knowledge of a DVD edition of this series dubbed in English or with English subtitles? 2. Does anyone have knowledge of the current copyright holder and contact information? 3. Do I have any alternatives at this point beyond "make the VHS work?" If so, what are they? 4. Based on my description, have I done my due diligence in attempting to ascertain copyright in such a way that would clear me to make a DVD copy? Any advice the list can provide would be appreciated. -- Eric Wheeler Simpson University Reader & Digital Services Librarian [email protected] 530.226.4943
VIDEOLIB is intended to encourage the broad and lively discussion of issues relating to the selection, evaluation, acquisition,bibliographic control, preservation, and use of current and evolving video formats in libraries and related institutions. It is hoped that the list will serve as an effective working tool for video librarians, as well as a channel of communication between libraries,educational institutions, and video producers and distributors.
