Are the table of contents of a textbook protected by copyright?
Let's say I have a website which lists the following information on certain textbooks without any relationship or agreement with the publisher:Name of book, Author, Picture of cover, Full table of contents. Intuitively, it seems clear that the first three should not be a problem, as any online bookseller lists these. But what about the table of contents? Can I reproduce it freely, or is it protected by copyright just like the rest of the book?
Answered By: Intellectual Property Center, LLC
I would suggest contacting an attorney. Generally, an author can have a copyright in the work created, including the text, graphics and organization. Your use may be including copyrightable elements which without permission may subject you to liability for copyright infringement.
Answer Applies to: Kansas
Replied: 8/12/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
Answer Applies to: Kansas
Replied: 8/12/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
Answered By: DANIEL NESBITT
The Table of Contents of a book would seem to qualify for copyright protection, though on-line book sellers make the table of contents available.
Answer Applies to: Ohio
Replied: 8/3/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
Answer Applies to: Ohio
Replied: 8/3/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
Answered By: Barton Barton & Plotkin
In my view, listing the full table of contents could be deemed copyright infringement. Note, however, that many on-line booksellers list full table of contents
Answer Applies to: New York
Replied: 8/1/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
Answer Applies to: New York
Replied: 8/1/2011
Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.
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