Copyrights protect original creative works from unauthorized copying. The copyright holder must give permission for others to use their work. Copyrights last for the life of the creator plus 70 years or between 28-67 years depending on when the work was created. While works are automatically copyrighted upon creation, registration with the copyright office provides additional legal protections. More information is available from the U.S. Copyright Office or on their website.

1. Copyrights
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

2. What Is a Copyright?
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 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.
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3. What if I Want to Use Copyrighted Work?
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 You must obtain permission from the copyright
holder.
 You can get permission by writing a letter to an
author, artist, publishing house, or Webmaster.
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4. Do Copyrights Expire?
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 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.
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5. How Do I Copyright My Work?
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 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.
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6. For More Information
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©U.S. Copyright Office
101 Independence Ave. S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20559-6000
(202) 707-3000
©http://www.copyright.gov/
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