Ethical Use of Information: Introduction to Copyright

by Purdue University Libraries

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.

• 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.