Copyright

Permission from copyright holders is often needed when creating course materials, research papers, and Web sites. You need to obtain permission when you use a work in a way that infringes on the exclusive rights granted to a copyright holder, i.e., reproducing part or all of a copyrighted work outside the boundaries of acceptable fair use. The following is a step-by-step guide to aid you in planning strategies to obtain permission to use copyrighted works for educational purposes.

• Circular 22: How to Investigate the Copyright Status of a Work. U.S. Copyright Office.

Additional resources:

• Circular 23:The Copyright Card Catalog and the Online Files of the Copyright Office. U.S. Copyright Office.
• Locating U.S. Copyright Holders. WATCH File (Writers, Artists, and Their Copyright Holders). The Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, University of Texas at Austin and the University of Reading.
• Stanford Copyright and Fair Use Center - Basics of Getting Permission.
• Citizen Media Guide to Obtaining Permission.
• DLib Magazine Article on Obtaining Permission.

Sample model permission letters from other universities:

These sample letters should be reviewed and modified to fit the specifics of your request. Your letter should provide complete and accurate information and include a self-addressed stamped envelope to expedite the permission process.

• Model Permission Form Letters from Columbia University.
• Sample written request for permission. Office of General Counsel, University of Texas System. A simple, general-purpose model permissions letter