Do You Have the Right to Have Your Document Transcribed?

Before you start, you need to know this.

Depending on where your document came from, you probably have the right to have it transcribed - but you might not.

If this is truly your own document, then all is fine.

However, many historical documents come from collections that are managed by search services, archives, museums and other institutions.  Each institution will have its own policy about what you can do with a document image they have provided to you.  Often they will provide a web page that lays this out - please consult it.  It is your responsibility to know whether or not having it transcribed will or will not infringe on the policies and rights of the provider.

This statement sounds a bit dire.

In reality, the provider's policy may limit the use and publication of the original image (in some cases permitted with an appropriate attribution statement), but will not likely extend to getting it transcribed.  If their policy goes as far as limiting transcription, it will also depend on what you want to do with the transcription.  If it will not be used in a context where it will earn an income, there is not likely going to be a problem.  It is always best to check with the originating provider to make sure.

Anyway, I cannot assume this responsibility.  I am obliged to assume you have already worked this out.

Your Rights and My Rights Regarding the Original Images and the Transcription:

You will own the file(s) that I deliver to you containing the transcription(s).  I will not claim any ownership, or place any restrictions on your use of these files.

I may retain a copy of the original image(s) and my transcription(s) for a short period of time.  This is mainly so I can re-examine the documents in the event a transcribing error has been made.  In some cases, especially with particularly unique documents, it may be helpful as a reference in other future transcribing work.

I will not publish any part of your original document images, or my transcriptions, unless I specifically ask for - and receive - your permission.

Acknowledgement / Attribution:

If you publish transcriptions I have done for you, there is no legal obligation for you to acknowledge my services.  However, it would be appropriate (and appreciated) for you to include an acknowledgement statement of the form:

Transcription by:  Ross Trafford, RichText Transcription Services

If publishing online, please also include the website or a link.

Of course, your (hopefully positive) feedback is welcome on my Feedback page.