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Ethical Use of Information: Introduction to Copyright

Copyright and Fair Use

by Purdue University Libraries

Copyright Beginnings

Berne Convention for the Protection Of Literary and Artistic Works, 1886

  • Agreement which established recognition of copyright among nations.
  • Introduced the concept that creators do not have to apply for copyright.  Copyright automatically exists for a work the moment it is created.
  • Introduced the concept of "fair use."
  • Requires that countries recognize copyrights held by citizens from all other countries of the convention.

Works not Protected by Copyright

  • Facts, names & titles, words & phrases, familiar symbols, etc.
  • Works designated in the public domain, which includes any work created by the U.S. government.
  • Works for which the copyright has expired.