More about the Public Domain
The Public Domain consists of creative works that are not entitled to copyright protection, have an expired copyright (due to time or nonrenewal), or have been specifically licensed for the Public Domain. Therefore, you can use and adapt materials in the Public Domain without worrying about copyright law (though you must still consider moral rights or trademark).
What works are in the Public Domain?
The Public Domain has a growing body of works. The general copyright term is the life of the copyright holder plus 70 years. This means that many works are in the public domain, including:
- Beethoven's music
- Many classic novels (Dickens, Austen, Shakespeare, etc.)
- Classic songs, hymns, and sheet music
- Steamboat Willie
- ...and more!
You get the idea, right? If the creator has been deceased for at least 70 years, it is highly likely that their work is in the Public Domain.
Where can I find works in the Public Domain?
There are many great websites and repositories for works in the Public Domain. These include:
