Creative Commons FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use proprietary, non-open software, to create an artefact that I openly-license for the purpose of publication?

A1: It depends on the software’s terms of use. Consider iChemLabs which clearly states that a user may own the copyright to artefacts created using the software. Nevertheless, iChemLabs also states that publication of any artefacts created using their software is strictly forbidden. It’s best practice to read the terms of use and any licensing information for software which you intend to use to create publishable materials.

Q2: If I digitise an artefact in the public domain, do I own the copyright to the digital surrogate?

A2: Generally, digitisation, or the creation of digital surrogates of public domain materials does not create new rights over a work.

Q3: If I transcribe a work in the public domain, do I own the copyright to the digital transcription?

A3: Generally, If the work was transcribed and translated, you own the copyright over the translation. If the work was simply transcribed, you own the copyright to any creative elements, such as the formatting of the transcription, but not the text itself. Remember, Creative Commons Licenses only apply when copyright also applies.

Q4: Can Creative Common’s public domain mark and public domain dedication be used interchangeably?

A4: No, the public domain mark is a tool for labeling works already in the public domain while the public domain dedication is a tool for relinquishing copyright and releasing material into the public domain.

Q5: Can for-profit entities make use of works licensed with a NonCommercial license? 

A5: Abiding by a licenses’ terms depends on the use, not the user. For-profit institutions can rightly make use of NC licensed materials as long as the specific use is NC.