Copyright Resources

Each January 1 (beginning in 2019), the date for works in the public domain moves forward one year.
In 2020, most works published in the U.S. before 1925 are in the public domain.
This may supersede the information provided in older resources cited below.

Review of Copyright and Reproduction of Works

Overview of Digitizing Collections

Public Domain, Fair Use and *Orphan Works

 *Orphan works: Items that are copyright protected, but for which the copyright owner cannot be determined or located.  If needed, use this term to investigate issues surrounding their publication.

 Researching Copyright Status

Copyright Permission Information

Rights Statements

  • Rights Statements Recommended rights statements for different situations; use in Dublin Core "Rights" field.

Copyright Code: Reproduction by Libraries