In libraries, every cent counts. Regardless of your zip code, libraries are always interested in pinching a penny, and one easy way is to utilize copyright-free material. From images and videos to music and documents, copyright-free resources can be a game-changer and really up the pizzazz of advertisements and social media posts.
before I found great online resources.
- Cost-Effective Creativity
Copyright-free material, available from various online sources, provides high-quality content without a hefty price tag. Many different websites (some listed below) offer thousands of images for free, allowing libraries to create professional-looking materials without breaking the bank.
- Legal Peace of Mind
The risk of unintentionally using copyrighted material and facing legal repercussions is a daunting prospect for any organization. By relying on copyright-free resources, libraries can avoid legal pitfalls. Free licenses, such as Creative Commons, clearly outline what can and cannot be done with the material, offering peace of mind and the freedom to create without worry.
- Enhancing Visual Appeal
In today’s digital age, visual content is king. Engaging images and videos can significantly boost a library’s outreach efforts and satisfy the mysterious algorithms behind social media. Whether it’s for social media campaigns, annual reports, or fundraising events, stunning visuals help tell a compelling story, capturing the attention of your audience.
- Flexibility and Adaptability
Libraries often need to produce a variety of content quickly and efficiently (“Oh yeah, that event is next week. Can you make a flyer for it?”). Copyright-free materials offer a flexible solution. Need a background image for a social media post? Infographics for a report? Copyright-free sites provide an array of options that can be tailored to fit the specific needs and branding of any program.
- Getting Started with Copyright-Free Materials
Ready to dive into the world of copyright-free resources? Here are some websites to get you started:
- Unsplash: High-resolution photos for free, suitable for any project.
- Pexels: A wide range of free stock photos and videos.
- Pixabay: Over 1.7 million free images, videos, and music tracks.
- Creative Commons: A platform to find works with free licenses.
- Burst by Shopify: Free stock photos tailored for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Some do require you to create a free account and offer premium versions, but you can often find what you are looking for, especially if you hop from site to site.
What websites and resources do you use? Any tips/tricks you’d like to share? Drop me a line at: smithc2@coopersiegelcommunitylibrary.org.
Cameron R.S. Smith | Cooper-Siegel Community Library
Part of this text generated by ChatGPT, May 29, 2024, OpenAI, https://chat.openai.com/chat.
