Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“I have read that if the material is not to be used for profit or redistribution then it may be used. Is using the material on a web site considered distribution or redistribution since it will be placed back onto the Internet in a new context by someone other than the original source? I want to be sure I am in compliance with copyright and intellectual property law.”
Whomever wrote what you read is wrong. Unless an image specifically says that it may be used, and is in the public domain, then you are required by copyright law to obtain permission to use it, and yes, publishing an image on a website is re-distribution (also known as ‘republication’).
