SUNY Empire Copyright Information Website: Getting Permission

Content Creator Gets Permission to Use Copyrighted Materials

• Faculty and staff must get copyright permission from the content owner when they are using copyrighted materials in whatever they're creating.
• Give yourself more time than you think you will need to secure permissions.
• The Copyright Permission Guide can direct you to the right person or organization to contact for permission.

Getting Permission from the Copyright Clearance Center

For permission to use text materials published in the U.S., go to the Copyright Clearance Center Pay Per Use Search. It will ask questions about the material you want to use and how you want to use it, and then give you a Quick Quote if they content can be paid for through the CCC, or give you contact information for the copyright owner so that you can negotiate permission with them directly. Here are the CCC Pay Per Use instructions.

Obtaining Permission Directly from the Copyright Holder

If you can't get permission through the Copyright Clearance Center, you need to contact the copyright holder directly.

• For journal articles and books that are in print, go to the publisher. 
• For materials that are out of print, contact the author or the author's estate. 
• There are organizations that control licensing of films and music, i.e., ASCAP, MPLC, BMI, SESAC, etc.
• Consult the Getting Permission Guide for more information
• If you need help with this research, Ask a Librarian.

Once you've identified the copyright owner, you need to contact them in writing (electronically counts.) If there is no web form, copy and paste this Permission Letter Template for your email and modify it as needed. Make sure to get and keep a written copy of the license - verbal contracts are unenforceable in practice.

You can use certified mail if you are concerned that the copyright owner isn't receiving your messages. Keep a copy of your letter.