A theoretical framework can offer an important means for understanding and delineating the complex issues of copyright law and its ramifications facing researchers and academic libraries. This study draws lessons from the literature on how copyright theories can inform practice in libraries. It describes strengths and weaknesses in each of the current theories, with none providing the needed philosophical clarity to address all stakeholder concerns. Promoting copyright literacy on campus and instituting such measures as classroom guidelines, a copyright compliance policy, a cross-departmental team to manage copyright, and library websites that address copyright issues may ease the frustrations in copyright practice.