Copyright
Overview
How long does copyright last? It depends on the type of work and when it was created. U.S. law sets different rules for individuals, corporations, and older materials. Understanding these basics can help you determine whether a work is still protected—or has entered the public domain.
📌 For most works created after January 1, 1978:
Copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.
📌 For anonymous, pseudonymous, or corporate works:
Copyright typically lasts 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation—whichever comes first.
Tips for Estimating Duration
Use these trusted resources to estimate when a work may enter the public domain.
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Cornell Public Domain ChartBreaks down U.S. copyright duration by publication year.
💡 Use this chart if you have a publication date and want to check public domain status.
💡 Tip: Some government documents, archival materials, or out-of-print books may still be under copyright. When in doubt, contact the Library for help.
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U.S. Copyright Office FAQs on DurationOfficial federal guidance on how long copyright protection lasts.
💡 If you’re unsure when a work was published, check the copyright page in the book or search WorldCat.
Relevant U.S. Law
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17 U.S.C. §§ 301–305Explains how federal copyright law preempts state laws and outlines the duration and enforcement of copyright protections.
💡 Tip: Legal language can be hard to interpret. Reach out to the Library for help understanding what the law means for your classroom use.
- Last Updated: Aug 13, 2025 6:03 PM
- URL: https://library.nwacc.edu/copyright
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