Copyright protection is afforded to all original literary works, from drama to cook books, whether they are published or not. Original under work-for-hire agreements are not protected. According to the Publishing Law Center, “the exception is a work made for hire, which is a work prepared by an employee within the scope of his or her employment; or a work specially ordered or commissioned in certain specified circumstances.”
Though copyright is automatic for original works, a copyright certification will provide you with prima facie, or irrefutable, evidence in any litigation. If you do need to go to trial to protect your copyright, the registration might help you gain reimbursement for lawyer fees and damages. It will also make clear to others who go through the due process that the copyright has been established.
Apply for a copyright certificate from the Library of Congress’ Copyright Office. In order to establish copyright, you will need to fill out an application form, a filing fee of $30 and a copy of the work. The application process might take as long as eight months. All copyrighted works are required to be deposited at the Copyright Office at the Library of Congress. One copy will suffice for unpublished books, but two are required for published works. Download the form at their website, or request one from the 24-hour hotline at 202-707-9100.
Copyright Office, Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20559
202-707-3000
copyright.gov