Copyright is a form of protection to the creators of original works of authorship such as literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and other intellectual works. Copyright laws (Title 17, U.S. Code) exist to control ownership, use, and distribution of creative and expressive works. When using others' copyrighted works, you should take care not to infringe on their rights as the copyright owner. Much can depend on how you use these materials.
This guide provides resources to learn more about how to comply with U.S. copyright laws, how to avoid accidental violations, and how to protect your intellectual property. The Library cannot offer legal advice; if you need legal advice, consult an attorney.
For a quick summary of the basics of copyright law and why it's important, view the video below. While it is designed for a university audience, the information is applicable for a non-profit organization with education as part of its mission.
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