Photocopying machines and other contemporary copying technologies have the potential to affect the volume of dispersed, limited-scale reproduction of copyrightable works, both in the country of a work's origin and abroad. On this premise and on the premise that certain exceptions to copyright protection should be made to allow public access to protected works, this study examines the impact of the use of contemporary copying technologies on copyrighted works and what corrective measures, if any, should be taken. The study focuses on photocopying in libraries, emphasizing the U.S. and Thailand which are selected to represent developed and developing countries. The main purpose of this study is to identify possible ways to maintain the balance between the interests of copyright owners and the interests of the public. To facilitate possible solutions, this study discusses the copyright owner's right to reproduce printed works, as well as limitations on this right, focusing on the Berne and Universal Copyright Conventions. The right and its limitations under the U.S. and Thai copyright laws are discussed. Also included are descriptions of recent legal solutions to the issues raised by copying technologies undertaken in the Federal Republic of Germany and in Australia. This study also explores the extent to which a nation's official approach to copyright law reflects not only the economic interests of owners and publishers of copyrightable works, but also the nation's status as net copyright exporter or importer. The U.S. economic interest in selling information for balance of trade purposes, and Thailand's need to acquire information for development, affect not only their respective national copyright law but also their willingness and ability to enter into international agreements. The study also discusses the means by which owners may protect their interests as well as possible avenues of governmental intervention to help maintain the balance of competing interests. The study concludes that all of the attempts made to date by different countries to cope with the impact of copying technologies have been compromises: a "you cannot win them all" type solution.