Copyright protects original works and ensures creators are compensated. Works are automatically protected when fixed in a tangible form. Copyright lasts for the author's life plus 70 years. Fair use allows limited use of copyrighted works for purposes like teaching without permission. New technologies challenge existing copyright laws. Possible copyright infringement includes copying and redistributing full works without permission. Options to consider include obtaining permission, using subscribed resources, purchasing copies, or finding public domain or openly licensed materials.