A copyright protects original creative works like books, plays, and websites from unauthorized copying. Copyrights last for the life of the creator plus 70 years for recent works, or between 28-67 years for older works. To use a copyrighted work, you must obtain permission from the copyright holder. While works are automatically protected by copyright, registering with the copyright office provides additional legal protections.

1. Q U E S T I O N S A N D A N S W E R S
Copyrights

2. What Is a Copyright?
 A copyright protects someone who creates an original
work.
 An original work can be a book, a play, or a Web site,
among others.
 The goal of copyrights is to prevent unauthorized
copying of your work.

3. What if I Want to Use Copyrighted Work?
 You must obtain permission from the copyright
holder.
 You can get permission by writing a letter to an
author, artist, publishing house, or Webmaster.

4. Do Copyrights Expire?
 For works created since January 1, 1978, the
copyright lasts until 70 years after the creator’s
death.
 For works created before January 1, 1978, a copyright
can last anywhere from 28 to 67 years.

5. How Do I Copyright My Work?
 If you create an original work, it is automatically
protected by copyright law.
 You can register your work with the copyright office
to obtain additional protections.

6. For More Information
 U.S. Copyright Office
101 Independence Ave. S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20559-6000
(202) 707-3000
 http://www.copyright.gov/