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Copyright

Copyright Best Practices

Learn How Copyright Works

This section covers key aspects of U.S. copyright law that affect teaching, publishing, and content sharing. Explore the topics below to learn how copyright shapes what you can and cannot do with creative works.

💡 Tip: Use the side navigation menu—or on small screens, tap the top navigation buttons—to access each topic in this section.

Explore Key Copyright Topics

These pages explain the foundational rules and concepts behind copyright in an educational setting. Each link leads to a brief, focused explanation with examples and practical notes.

  • 📘 Copyright Coverage
    Learn what types of work copyright protects—and what it doesn't.
  • ⏳ Duration of Copyright
    See how long copyright lasts and when works enter the public domain.
  • 🕵️‍♂️ Orphan Works
    Find out what happens when you can’t identify or contact a copyright owner.
  • 📏 CONFU (Fair Use Guidelines)
    Understand best practices for using small portions of copyrighted works in class.
  • 📦 First Sale Doctrine
    Learn why owning a book doesn't give you the right to scan or share it online.
  • 🛡 DMCA & Safe Harbor Protections
    Learn how the DMCA protects colleges, and what it means for Canvas, video, and scanned content.
  • 🌐 Public Domain
    Explore free-to-use content and how to know when copyright no longer applies.
  • 🌍 International Copyright
    See how copyright laws differ around the world and what applies at NWACC.

Tools for Researching Copyright Status

These tools can help you determine whether a work is protected by copyright, registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, or possibly in the public domain.

  • 🔍 Search Copyright Records
    Look up registered works by title, author, or registration number (1978–present).
    💡 Tip: Wondering if an older textbook or article is still under copyright? Start here to check whether it was ever registered.
  • 📄 Request Certified Copies or Records
    Learn how to access historical records or get certified documentation for legal needs.
    💡 Tip: If you’re using archival materials or teaching with historical media, a records request can help confirm a work's copyright status.
  • ℹ️ Understanding Copyright Public Records
    Explore what copyright records include and how they can help determine copyright status.