The Role of Licensed Images in Educational Publishing

Licensed visuals augment learning, especially when they feature historical documents, artworks or scientific diagrams. In the UK and EU, educational publishers must often secure licences that cover classroom, textbook and digital use. In the US, education often falls under fair use, while widespread or paid use (for example, in sold textbooks) will generally require a licence.

→ See our images in action across the educational sector

Sourcing Images for Textbooks and Online Courses

Publishers need to balance quality, rights, clarity and budget. We also recommend that publishers verify whether content is intended for print only, web only, or both and check whether multiple student downloads, localisation or reuse are permitted. 
Ideal sources include:

  • International licensing agencies
  • Institutional collections (museums, university archives)
  • Stock providers
  • Licensed educational libraries

To simplify your project’s development Bridgeman Images offer subscription and tiered access for editorial and academic use, starting from straightforward per‑image terms.

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human skeleton diagram
Anatomy of the human skeleton, 1820 (copperplate engraving) / © Florilegius / Bridgeman Images

Licensing Requirements for Print vs. Digital Use

Print and digital formats may need separate licences. In the UK and EU, licences will often distinguish between distribution options such as physical publication, static pdfs and interactive modules. Moreover, educational platforms such as Canvas or Blackboard may require their own digital terms. In some countries, using images in paid apps or educational software may require further permissions or licensing approval from local regulators. Publishers should request licences for each format as needed and clarify whether licences include adaptations, resizing or translation.

Managing Rights Across Multiple Regions and Languages

When working with multi-regional editions, publishers should:

  • Obtain global or multi-territory licences where possible
  • Confirm rights for print, digital, and derivative formats
  • Ensure image captions and credits are translated and preserved accurately across languages

→ For tailored international rights support, get in touch with one of our five global offices

→ Find out where Fair Use and Fair Dealing may apply

spiral timescale geology
Geological timescale / Natural History Museum, London, UK / © Natural History Museum, London / Bridgeman Images

Balancing Budget with Licensing Needs in Academic Projects

Academic budgets often lack flexibility. As such, we would suggest implementing the following cost‑saving strategies where possible:

  • Combining print and digital rights in one licence
  • Applying for bulk or annual licence packages
  • Assessing Creative Commons licences (but avoiding NC or ND restrictions in commercial contexts)

Budgeting should also include potential fees for high-resolution files, colour correction or special reproductions.

→ Find more information on creative commons licences

Afterword

A licensed image remains one of the best tools for educational and academic projects, providing visual context while boosting engagement and legitimacy. Publishers should carefully vet sources, request format‑specific licences, and account for regional, language and budget considerations. Bridgeman Images can offer tailored academic licensing solutions to help streamline this process, ensuring your licences agree with your goals.

 



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