Some of the most frequently asked questions about permissions, and our responses.
- Why do I need permission to use materials held in the Library which are in the public domain and out of copyright?
- If the material I wish to reproduce is in copyright, do I still need to clear permission?
- At what stage do I need to apply for permission?
- How do I obtain permission to use images from the British Library's collections?
- Do I need to state how I intend to use the material(s)?
- Will there be a permission fee charged for reproducing the images?
- Is there a reduction in the fees if I use more than 10 images?
- Why do I need permission to use materials held in the Library that are in the public domain and out of copyright?
The original work(s) are in the public domain; the copies the Library supplies are in copyright as they are new copies of the original materials. This is why you will need to clear permission. - If the material I wish to reproduce is in copyright, do I still need to clear permission?
Permission will still need to be cleared with the Library as well as the copyright owner. - At what stage do I need to apply for permission?
Ideally permission should be sought once you have received your material and 6 months before your project comes to a close. - How do I obtain permission to use images from the British Library's collections?
You will need to contact Permissions to negotiate the rights charge. As a guide to our charges, please consult our Permission Fees Schedule. Complete and return our Permission Application form to obtain permission to use our images. - Do I need to state how I intend to use the material(s)?
Yes, you will need to inform the Library of usage of the material(s), and if you wish to adapt, crop, or alter the materials from its original state. - Will there be a permission fee charged for reproducing the images?
In most cases there is always a fee charged, how much will depend on several factors. As a guide to our charges, please consult our Permission Fees Schedule. - Is there a reduction in the fees if I use more than 10 images?
All permission requested placed offline are negotiable.
