So you want to use part of someone else’s book/music/art/poem in your book. You’ve just entered the realm of copyright law.
Was that work published before 1923? If so, it has entered the realm of public domain. It can be freely used, but you must cite the original source. Some works published between 1923 and 1963 have also entered public domain.
You can begin an informal copyright search online. For items registered since 1978, here’s how:
- Go to www.copyright.gov (bookmark this important site!). You’ll find several subsections and links on the homepage. You might even want to start with “Copyright Basics” listed under ABOUT.
- Click on Search Copyright Information
- Click on Search the Catalog
From the Search the Catalog page you’ll have the option of searching by title, name, or keyword, as well as other options. The page offers instructions on conducting your search, along with another link for finding information on works registered prior to 1978.
Next Tuesday, we’ll take a brief look at the fair use doctrine. This series on copyrights will also include how to find out who owns the copyright, and how to obtain permissions. Be sure to visit every Tuesday for Tuesday’s Tip.
In the meantime, happy hunting.
Debra L. Butterfield © 2013