Q. How can I tell when a book is in the public domain?

You should look at the publication date. Once you know the date, you can figure out whether the book is in the public domain. Generally, books published BEFORE 1923 in the U.S. are in the public domain. Others published after that date, up to 1977 but were published without a copyright notice (©) or other notice, MAY also be in the public domain. Review the excellent and comprehensive public domain chart created by Peter Hirtle at: https://copyright.cornell.edu/resources/publicdomain.cfm

Disclaimer: These Ask Yale Library questions are fluid and subject to change.  If you have suggestions or feedback on this, please contact:

Sandra Aya Enimil

Copyright Librarian and Contracting Specialist

copyright.librarian@yale.edu or sandra.enimil@yale.edu

The information provided in this guide is for your general information purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice.  For legal advice, please consult with your own attorney or Yale's Office of General Counsel.