Copyright

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.

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.

Want to check if a work is under copyright or get official documentation? Copyright Office tools let you search public records, understand registration details, and request certified copies if needed.