By default, new Asset Categories have no access rights applied. As a result end users are not able to access asset in a given category until access is allowed via Permissions.
Category Properties
To assign Permissions to an Asset Category go to Administration -> Content -> Assets -> Categories. The following view will be presented:
1. Edit/configure:
Filter groups
Select Unassigned and check to grant the appropriate read and write access.
Note: read allows members of the group to view the contents of the category, either directly, via the search or through a page element.
Write allows users to upload assets into the category, providing the group also has the author assets privilege assigned.
2. Click Save.
3. If required, click Cascade and then Finished.
