Copyright: Where to Begin

Here are a few steps to help you figure out where to start.

First, determine if you are dealing with copyrighted work.

• Is the work in the Public Domain? Most works created before 1923 fall in this category.

If the work is copyrighted, determine if the work is licensed by the University.

• Check the library's collection of databases and electronic resources.
• Check to see if your department has licensed the copyrighted resources.
• Remember to follow the guidelines of the license for each work.

If the work is not in the public domain or licensed for use, determine if there is a legal exemption to copyright law for your use. Examples include:

• Media in the Classroom - Section 110-1 covers classroom performance and display
• TEACH Act - Section 110-2 covers digital transmissions for performance and display
• DCMA exemptions

If the copyrighted work is not licensed or covered by an exemption, run a Fair Use analysis.

If your work does not fall under any of the above, you need to seek permission to use it, which may require paying royalties.