Copyrights "protect the writings of an author against copying. Literary, dramatic, musical and artistic works are included." "Copyright protects the form of expression rather than to the subject matter of the writing."

For more information about copyrights please see Copyright Basics at the Library of Congress, Copyright Office's website.

Although the U.S. Copyright Office is encouraging electronic filing of copyright registrations through their eCo system, there are also other registration alternatives. These include paper forms that can be downloaded online, filled out, and mailed; a downloadable fill-in Form CO, which replaces Forms TX, VA, PA, SE, and SR, and uses 2-D barcode scanning technology. Information regarding application forms is available at U.S. Copyright Office Forms.

Links to Copyright Websites

Official Sites

U.S. Copyright Office – This site includes copyright circulars, copyright forms which may be downloaded, and much more. Copyright legislation (new and pending) and registration procedures are also discussed.

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) – This United Nations agency is "responsible for the promotion of the protection of intellectual property throughout the world through cooperation among" member countries "and for the administration of various multilateral treaties dealing with the legal and administrative aspects of intellectual property."

Other Copyright Sites of Interest

Copyright & Fair Use – As its title indicates, this site provides information on copyright and fair use. Legislation, treaties, links to other internet sites and an overview of copyright law are presented.

Copyright Crash Course – For a "crash course" on copyright, take a look at this site provided by the University of Texas. For their Copyright Crash Course Online Tutorial, visit Copyright Tutorial.

Please send your questions and comments about these sites and suggestions for other sites to refdesk5@browardlibrary.org.