compilation

Can a compilation copyright be claimed in a collection of public domain works?

Yes, if the selection, coordination or arrangement of them is sufficiently creative and original, then a compilation copyright may be claimed in a collection of public domain works. The owner of a copyright in a compilation of public domain works, however, does not acquire copyrights in the public domain works themselves.

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Is copying, distributing, publicly performing, or publicly displaying a public domain work infringement?

No. Copyright infringement can occur only if copyright protection exists. A public domain work is not protected by copyright, so there is nothing to infringe. Therefore, copying, distributing, performing, or displaying a public domain work is not copyright infringement. Copying, distributing, performing or displaying a work that is a modification or a compilation of a

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Which categories of specially commissioned works may be works made for hire?

In addition to the requirement of a signed, written agreement expressly calling the arrangement a “work made for hire,” a work created by an independent contractor is not a “work made for hire” unless it is created after it is commissioned (not before), and falls into at least one of the following categories: Translation Contribution

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Can I claim a copyright in a collection of facts, information or other uncopyrightable material?

Yes, if the selection, coordination or arrangement is creative and original. Although facts are not protected by copyright, copyright may be claimed in the selection and arrangement of them, provided it is sufficiently creative and original. Copyright cannot be claimed in a selection and arrangement that is too obvious to be creative and original. For

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