April 9, 2009 @ 15:04pm
Generally, it is best to assume that images on the web have copyright protection, unless it is very clear that they don't. Usually this will be because the owner explicitly gives away copyright or because the images are very old and have entered the public domain. Even in those cases, though, it's wise to be careful, as often the owner only gives some of her rights away (as in most Creative Commons licenses), or the material is licensed in some way (which may restrict use of otherwise public domain material).
So, what can you do? First, even if an item is under copyright, you may be able to use it. You can find information on Fair Use and other ways that you might be able to justify use, as through the TEACH Act, at http://librarycopyright.net/wiki. Your analysis may vary from image to image and use to use. You may also want to try looking for materials that are made available through some sort of licensing. For information on Creative Commons and Open Licensing, including how to find these images, see http://librarycopyright.net/wiki/index.php?title=Creative_Commons_and_Open_Licenses.