Copyright FAQ

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Below are some common questions and answers regarding copyright and adhering to copyright restrictions in the works you use. Please note that this page is a work in progress and will be updated as the copyright committee validates the information.

Disclaimer: The information presented below is only general information, and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship with reference to all the facts of the particular situation under consideration. Accordingly, the information below must not be relied upon as a substitute for obtaining information from a licensed attorney.

Introduction to Copyright

What is copyright?

Do you have to apply for copyright?

Copyright, unlike patent, is not something you have to apply for—it vests the minute you fix something creative in a tangible form and, in general, it lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years (there are some exceptions). In other words, nearly all authors are technically copyright holders. Put another way, just because something is published does not it mean it isn't copyrighted. It's true that some authors don't elect to register their copyrights or enforce them but they have the right to do so for their entire lives, and their heirs can enforce the rights for 70 years beyond that.

Can copyright be enforced if the work is not registered?

When a work is published, does that mean it is in the public domain?

Where can I get more information on copyright?

�鶹��Ƶ Libraries
Stapleton Library, Room 203
431 South Eleventh Street
Indiana, PA 15705
Phone: 724-357-2330
Fax: 724-357-4891

LIBRARY HOURS

Monday–Thursday: 7:45 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Friday: 7:45 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Please see exceptions to normal hours

Please note: Stapleton Library’s doors are locked to incoming users 15 minutes before closing to assist our staff in clearing the building. Thank you for your cooperation.