Content Creators and Copyright: What You Can and Can't Do

The Limits of Purchase

When you purchase a copyrighted work, you imagine you are free to do as you please with it. Does this mean you can read, study, or use the work in any way you want? Not quite. Whatever permissions you have been granted, you are limited to specific actions only. For example, if a copyright holder allows you to use their book 'any way you want,' they are not being vague. They are clearly stating that they will not be giving permission beyond the ordinary uses of the book.

Specific Permissions Required for Non-Standard Use

A copyright holder will almost certainly only grant permissions for very specific uses, particularly if the work is significant or lucrative. If you want to use any part of the book for purposes outside its intended or expected use, you will need to negotiate these terms specifically. The permission could cover things like using excerpts for educational purposes, creating derivatives, or even performing the work in public. It is unlikely that you can simply exercise the right to use the work freely without obtaining express permission.

Working Out Specific Permissions

Taking into account the specific conditions and permissions granted by the copyright holder is crucial. Rarely will you be given carte blanche to use the work freely, especially without paying a fee for additional permissions. These terms and conditions make sure that both parties are clear on what actions are allowed. If you want to use the work in a manner that isn't the standard, you need to discuss the specifics with the copyright holder.

What You Can and Cannot Do with a Copyrighted Work

Here are some of the things you generally can and cannot do with a copyrighted work you purchased:

What You Can Do

Destroy the Work: Yes, you can disassemble, burn, or trample upon the physical copy of the work. This includes destroying a physical book or the like. Sell the Work: You can resell the work, either as a whole or its parts, though you may need to ensure it does not resell in a manner that infringes on the copyright holder's rights. Display or Show the Work: You can display the work to individuals who are not charged for the privilege. This includes sharing it with friends or colleagues in a personal setting.

What You Cannot Do

Copy the Work: You cannot make copies of the work, including digital copies or derivatives, unless you have explicit permission to do so from the copyright holder. Create Derivatives: You cannot use parts of the work to create a derivative work without the copyright holder's express permission. Perform or Display the Work Publicly: You cannot publicly perform or display the work for a fee or for commercial gain. These actions require permission from the copyright holder.

Legal Rights of Copyright Holders

The rights reserved to the copyright holder are clearly laid out in the United States Copyright Law. Specifically, under section 17 USC 106, the copyright holder retains the exclusive rights to:

Reproduce the copyrighted work. Distribute copies of the work to the public. Publicly display the copyrighted work. Create derivative works based upon the copyrighted work. Distribute copies or phonorecords of the work or derivative works. Perform the copyrighted work publicly.

Understanding these rights is essential to ensure you are not infringing on the copyright holder's exclusive rights. Always check for express permissions or seek a licensing agreement if you are planning to use the work beyond its normal, ordinary use.