Licenses and CLARIN Categories

The following section presents an overview of well-known standard licenses used for the distribution of language resources. These are presented using the CLARIN classification system that has been devised for the more efficient management of language resources.

Based on their licenses, language resources compatible with CLARIN can be divided into three main categories: CLARIN PUB, CLARIN ACA or CLARIN RES. In addition, there are several subcategories based on the most common conditions of use associated with the distribution of language resources.

Notes

1. The 'CLARIN License Category Calculator' guides depositors of language resources into selecting the most fitting license category for their resource based on a series of choices they make relating to its contents and intended use(s)
2. The same language resource can have different licenses depending on the end user's role or intended use
3. CLARIN deposition license agreements (i.e. agreements made between resource providers and the CLARIN centres where these are deposited) are available for curating a minimal set of access conditions to include a resource in the CLARIN PUB, ACA or RES categories. The minimal deposition licenses can be used as checklists if you wish to use your own set of deposition licenses to agree on additional usage conditions with the resource provider.

1. PUB Language Resources

PUB language resources can be distributed publicly. The distribution of these materials is not restricted by copyright or personal data protection issues. This category includes works that are in the public domain and resources with the following licenses.

Examples of PUB Licenses (and Their CLARIN Category Labels)

2. ACA Language Resources

ACA language resources can be accessed only for research purposes. The end-user does not need to ask for usage permission but can access the resources via e.g. federated login.

Examples of ACA Licenses (and Their CLARIN Category Labels)

3. RES Language Resources

RES language resources have additional restrictions which require permission from the rights holder. These resources may contain material whose usage is limited due to copyright and/or personal data protection issues. In practice, these language resources require both using federated login to authenticate the end-user and sending a separate application to the rights holder for authorization, possibly including a research plan with the resource.

Examples of RES Licenses (and Their CLARIN Category Labels)