The Federal Copyright Act of 1976 is the federal law that provides authors, artists, creators and programmers with the property rights to exclusive use and control over their creations.  Copyright laws affect anyone who writes, draws, programs, films, photographs, composes or otherwise creates literary, musical, dramatic, artistic or creative works in a tangible medium of expression.  In addition, copyright laws also affect those who like to imitate, steal or otherwise misappropriate creative works that are not their own.  There are severe civil and criminal penalties for infringing a copyright.  With the ubiquitous use of the internet, and blogs in particular, almost everyone is affected by copyright laws.

Fair Use

Material that is protected by a copyright may still be used under the Fair Use exception to the copyright rights.  In order to promote the free flow of information authors are able to copy material from protected works for specific purposes.  A few of these purposes are education, news, research and criticism.  It is always a good idea to check with a qualified copyright lawyer before attempting make use of copyright protected material.

Public Domain

Materials that are not protected by copyright fall within the realm of Public Domain.  Anything published before 1923 is in the public domain.  You may use this material for your own purposes without legal consequence.  However, you should be aware that some material in the public domain may have been altered in a creative way thereby creating a new copyright which cannot be infringed.  Again it is always wise to check with a qualified copyright attorney if you have any questions.