Q. How do I find out who owns the copyright for a book or other creative work?

Look for the copyright notice, if there is one (generally there is in a published book). That gives the name of the copyright holder. Typically it is the author but may even be the publisher. If the copyright holder is deceased, it may be their heirs or estate. There are several resources online to search for copyright holders:

• The U.S. Copyright Office (both free and fee-based)
• WATCH File (Writers Artists and Their Copyright Holders)
• The Online Books Page (Univ. of Pennsylvania)
• Copyright Clearance Center (fee-based)

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.