Orphan works are copyrighted materials where it is difficult or impossible to locate the copyright holder. This can happen when:
When a diligent search fails to identify or contact the current rights holder, the work may be considered “orphaned.”
Using an orphan work requires weighing the educational value or need against the legal risk of using material without permission.
💡 Tip: The risk may be low, especially for nonprofit educational use, but it's not zero. Rights holders can still issue takedown notices or pursue claims.
Before proceeding, consider the following options.
✔ Consider Fair Use
✔ Locate Alternatives
✔ Rethink Your Use