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What is UCITA?

Last Update: 22-May-2006 10:40

The Uniform Computer Information Transactions Act (UCITA) is a proposed state contract law developed to regulate transactions in computer information products such as computer software, online databases, software access contracts or e-books. Libraries annually purchase over $100 million in electronic information products so that the passage of UCITA will have a great impact on the ability of libraries to access and use the information products they purchase.

UCITA is destined for consideration by all fifty state legislatures, the District of Columbia and the American Territories. UCITA has become one of the most controversial uniform commercial laws. Since 2000 libraries have joined with a diverse coalition of partners including retail and manufacturing concerns, consumer advocates, insurance and financial institutions and other nonprofits in mounting strong opposition wherever UCITA has been considered.

Find out more about UCITA and get the latest news on UCITA developments through this site.

This site is made possible, in part, by a grant from The Ford Foundation.

UCITA Pages:

UCITA 101 & 102
UCITA basics and some related proposed amendments

Impact
UCITA's impact on libraries;
Related page: "Problems with a non-negotiated contract"

Headlines
Latest developments & UCITA related events

Flash Reports
One page UCITA news digests published on an occasional basis

States
Track UCITA status and legislative history in the state legislatures

Toolkit
How to take action against UCITA

Library
Reference sources and links

Contact
How to reach the ALA Washington Office staff
Related page: Roster of the ALA UCITA Task Force