Student Letter
Date
Dear Student:
As we all know, the Internet has transformed our lives. With increasing speed and accuracy, everything is just a mouse click away. However, like all major technological advances, the Internet does not come without challenges. One such challenge is the impact that the Internet has on copyrighted works, including recorded music.
As members of the academic community we must help resolve these new challenges, which is why [name of college/university] has agreed to participate in a national education campaign focused on music on the Internet. The SOUNDBYTING Campaign was developed by the Recording Industry Association of America, Inc. (RIAA), to address the creation and use of sites that provide unauthorized access to copyrighted sound recordings on the Internet. The Campaign is designed to provide critical information on respecting artists' rights and an understanding of copyright laws that pertain to music on the Internet.
During this school year, you will see information around campus that focuses on the issue of using sound recordings online. For additional information on this topic, we suggest you visit http://www.soundbyting.com. This site explains basic copyright principles and provides information specifically addressing the use of recorded music online.
Finally, a copy of [name of college/university] Internet policies is enclosed [or can be viewed at http:_____]. The unauthorized use of copyrighted works on the school's computer system is a violation of school policy. Anyone who violates this policy faces [insert course of action]. As a student, you are provided with the privilege of using campus computer networks. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with these policies and adhere to them.
If you would like more information about [name of college/university] Internet policies or participation in this Campaign, please contact _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _. Thank you for your attention to this issue.
Sincerely,
NAME
TITLE
Enclosure
