What is Copyright? Learn about the basics of copyright with our new online reference page.

The most recent major overhaul of copyright in the US, the Copyright Act of 1976, extended federal copyright to works as soon as they are created and "fixed", without requiring publication or registration.

A copyright is a form of protection provided by U.S. law to the authors of "original works of authorship" fixed in any tangible medium of expression. Learn more about the basics of copyrights.

Aug 29, 2025 · Copyright is a form of intellectual property that protects original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression, including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, as well …

U.S. copyright law resource page aimed to assist individual creators, small business owners, and members of the public. Learn about copyright law today.

Mar 1, 1989 · Copyright is the exclusive legal right to reproduce, publish, sell, or distribute the matter and form of something.

Dec 18, 2025 · copyright, the exclusive, legally secured right to reproduce, distribute, and perform a literary, musical, dramatic, or artistic work.