Copyright is a legal concept that gives the creators of original works exclusive rights to their creations, granting them control over the use and distribution of those works. This protection is granted to various forms of creative expression, including literary, artistic, musical, and other intellectual works. Copyright applies to both published and unpublished works. The rights typically associated with copyright include the right to reproduce the work, distribute copies, publicly display or perform the work, and create derivative works based on the original. These rights aim to incentivize creative individuals by allowing them to control how their works are used and to benefit financially from their creations. Copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of the work. Generally, it lasts for a limited time, after which the work enters the public domain, becoming freely available for the public to use. The duration of copyright protection can vary depending on factors such as the type of work, the jurisdiction, and when it was created. Copyright is an essential element of intellectual property law and is crucial in fostering creativity and innovation.
According to 17 U.S.C. § 102, copyrighted works include:
According to 17 U.S.C. § 106, copyright owners have the exclusive right to:
Notice: The copyright law of the United States (Title 17 U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Institution in which this device is placed is not responsible for any copyright infringement as a result of a users actions. The person using this equipment is liable for any infringement.
In 1998, the Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act extended the period of copyright protection for an additional 20 years. As part of the Act, Congress provided that during the last 20 years of any term of copyright of a published work, a library or archives may reproduce a copy of the work for purposes of preservation, scholarship, or research provided that: the work was not being distributed commercially; the work cannot be obtained at a reasonable price; or the copyright owner or its agent provides notice that either of the above conditions applies.
Source: Library Photocopying - Stanford University Libraries
In the beginning, copyright law was intended to cover only books. In the 19th century, the law was expanded to include maps, charts, engravings, prints, musical compositions, dramatic works, photographs, paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Motion pictures, computer programs, sound recordings, dance, and architectural works became protected by copyright in the 20th century.
Copyright protection falls under title 17, U.S. Code, and covers "original works of authorship."
So what makes a work original?
