Copyright is a legal right that is automatically secured when original works of authorship are “fixed in any tangible medium of expression, from which they can be reproduced, or otherwise communicated” (U.S. Copyright Law, title 17, U.S. Code Section 10). If you write a paper, compose a symphony, develop a computer program, paint a picture or take a photograph, you automatically own copyright to that work. You may not own the copyright if you did it for your employer as a work made for hire or if you were commissioned to do it as a work made for hire. If you authored a work with someone else, each of you is a co-owner of copyright, with equal rights in the work. The creator of a work is the original owner of the copyright unless the creator transfers the copyright in writing, or unless it was a work for hire. This poster will address frequently asked questions concerning copyright and the implications to publishing chemical literature.