This summary outlines the key points about using LAME MP3 encoding libraries: 1) The LAME libraries are distributed under the GNU LGPL and GPL licenses, which must be read before using the installed programs. 2) The LAME encoder is separate from Audacity due to patent restrictions on MP3 technology in some countries, so users must check their local patent laws. 3) Commercial programs can link to the LAME library if they acknowledge its use, link to the LAME website, and release any modifications under the LGPL.

1. This LAME for Windows installer includes code licensed under the
GNU LGPL and GPL ( http://www.gnu.org/licenses/licenses.html ).
By using the installed libraries and programs, you acknowledge
to have read the terms of these licenses.
The LAME MP3 encoder is distributed separately from Audacity
because the MP3 technology is covered by patents in certain
countries. Therefore in addition to reading the terms of this
License Agreement, it is your responsibility to determine the
legal position in your own country regarding use of LAME in
Audacity. More information is available online at:
http://audacityteam.org/wiki/index.php?title=Lame_Installation#Legal_issues .
The full text of the LAME Licensing Agreement follows:
Can I use LAME in my commercial program?
Yes, you can, under the restrictions of the LGPL. The easiest
way to do this is to:
1. Link to LAME as separate library (libmp3lame.a on Unix or
lame_enc.dll on Windows)
2. Fully acknowledge that you are using LAME, and give a link
to our web site, www.mp3dev.org
3. If you make modifications to LAME, you *must* release these
these modifications back to the LAME project, under the LGPL.
*** IMPORTANT NOTE ***
The decoding functions provided in LAME use the mpglib decoding engine which
is under the GPL. They may not be used by any program not released under the
GPL unless you obtain such permission from the MPG123 project (www.mpg123.de).