The document discusses several topics related to copyright including building on the work of others, determining what is in the public domain, locating copyright owners, how copyright law applies to internet usage, fair use guidelines and factors, limitations of the TEACH Act, and obtaining permission through organizations like the Copyright Clearance Center. Major search engine companies and cultural institutions are working to provide access to copyrighted works while respecting owners' rights. Determining what constitutes fair use and adhering to copyright guidelines is important but sometimes unclear.

1. Copyright crash course Building on other’s creative expression

2. Public Domain and Orphan Works Libraries, museums and archives are carrying out projects to provide the public access. Major search engine companies are working and partnering with institutions to assist with the high demands. Public domain created but a fine line has many guessing what is acceptable. Community of sharing has allowed everyone the opportunity to build on others ideas. Practices are being used to locate copyright owners of different types of work. http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu

3. Using Material from the Internet Many people assume the internet is a free domain, due to the fact that the copyright seal is not seen. Copyright law is governed the same way as the use of books, music and video. The daily use of the internet and downloading makes it difficult to due to unclear copyright rules. Universities must vigilantly monitor their networks. http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu

4. Fair Use The term is unclear and the answer is sought by many. Online boundaries are continually being disputed. Fair use Best Practices statement, Center of Social Media and Washington Law School of American University has made it easier to use materials. Creative Commons licenses are being implemented to allow the use of their works with permission. Penalties are harsh regardless of pleading ignorance. When in doubt, refer to the Fair Use Checklist. http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu

5. The four fair use factors What is the character of the use What is the nature of the work to be used? How much of the work will you use? What effect would this use have on the market for the original or for permissions if the use were widespread? http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu

6. The TEACH ACT Limitations of Section 110(2) prompted Congress in 1988 to have the Copyright Office to create report. The outcome was the TEACH ACT in 2002. It allows educators to perform and display works and to make copies, it ONLY covers classroom performance and displays. Many educators feel it more difficult to comply with Section 110(2) Fair Use is the best source of authority for making copies in any context. http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu

7. Getting Started Copyright Clearance Center should be the first step in getting permission. It offers electronic and photocopy based transactional permission services and subscription licenses to use in the classroom. School libraries are most likely already working with CCC and therefore are able to assist us. Freelance writers, Music performance, play rights, news archives and movies have different requirements. If owner or author is know, contact can be made to get permission. http://copyright.lib.utexas.edu