Copyright

If you're thinking about using a creative work (or even just a significant portion of it), here’s what you need to know:

1. Is the work still protected by copyright? Or, has it fallen into the Public Domain?
2. Will your use touch on one of the copyright holder’s exclusive rights? For example, copying a protected part of the work, performing it publicly, or creating something new, like a sequel or adaptation.

If both answers are “yes,” you’ll need to either find an exception that allows you to use it without permission or get permission directly from the copyright holder. This section of the LibGuide is here to help you navigate the process. Use the table of contents below to guide your exploration.