How do I copyright my book?
Under U.S. copyright law, your self-published work is protected as soon as you put pen to paper. Copyright is based on your creative authorship and is not dependent on any formal agreement with a book publisher or self-publishing company, although registration with the U.S Copyright Office is beneficial.
Copyright registration allows you a higher level of security and confidence when it comes to protecting your work. When you register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office, you create a public record of your authorship. Even though you are protected the moment you start writing, you'll have to register your work with the Copyright Office to be officially recognized as the copyright holder in a court of law. The use of the copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner. For more information see: http://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ01.pdf
If I have an ISBN do I need to include it on my copyright page?
If your print book is for sale, you must have an ISBN and should list it on the copyright page. However, if your print book is for personal use, you do not need an ISBN to print your book using Barnes & Noble Press.
Do I have the right to print the contents of this book?
- You have the right to print content if you are the original writer or creator of the manuscript, cover, or other content.
- You do not have the right to print the content if the content was created by a party other than yourself. The exception is if you lawfully acquired written permission to print the content from the holder of the content's copyright. You must be prepared to submit proof of any permission after you upload the content to our platform.
Can I share printed copies of a book when I am the original creator or I have acquired written permission from the copyright holder?
- Printing a copy to share within your immediate family is allowed.
- If you choose to print multiple copies, check that sharing outside your immediate family is allowed by the copyright holder.
How do I file a copyright complaint?
If you believe your copyrighted work is being sold by someone else who does not own the copyright, you can file a complaint with Barnes & Noble's Copyright agent in writing by sending an email to DMCANotice@bn.com or by sending a letter to the below mailing address:
Copyright Agent
Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Inc.
33 East 17th Street
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 633-3300
Fax: (212) 463-5683
What are examples of copyright violations?
The following list includes but is not limited to:
- Books, newspaper and magazine articles, and other written works
- Photographs
- Paintings, cartoons, and other artworks
- Theater and movie scripts
- Company logos and branding
- Song lyrics
- Licensed fonts
- Licensed characters
- Website graphics