LIBRARY
Daniel A. Cannon Memorial Library: Public Domain/Creative Commons
Policies for Using Images & Media
Whenever possible, images should come from the public domain or Creative Commons.
All images and media should be accompanied by attributions. The attribution should be directly beneath the image, in the caption field, or located in the lower right box on the page.
All images and media should be accompanied by alt text descriptions.
Acceptable Images
Public Domain: Works that you can use in any way you want to. Most works enter the public domain once intellectual property laws expire, but some enter because creators wish for their work to be available without copyright law restrictions.
Creative Commons: Creative Commons is an organization that has made the process of applying copyright licenses much easier. Creators can choose from six licenses with a range of restrictions and easily access the license and legal code for their choice. This clear licensing and common-sense explanation of copyright makes it a lot easier to find and use work legally and ethically.
While one could make an argument that we fall under the protection of Fair Use with LibGuide, we ask that you first attempt to find works that are available under Public Domain or Creative Commons. We want to promote open resources that are accessible to all people we serve - including Butler alumni and members of the public. We also want students to see that there are plenty of amazing, open, free resources that they'll be able to use beyond their time at Butler. Think of your LibGuide as a way to promote the use of such materials.
If you feel that including an item that is not Public Domain or Creative Commons is necessary, please make sure it falls under Fair Use and attribute it properly.
- Creative Commons: LicensesLearn more about the Creative Commons licenses.
- American Library Association's Digital Copyright SliderA resource that you can use to determine copyright by date of the work.
- American Library Association's Fair Use EvaluatorA web form that you can use to create a date stamped fair use evaluation for your personal records.
Recommended Image Repositories
- FlickrAdvanced search includes several helpful options.
- Wikimedia CommonsLarge collection of public domain and Creative Commons images, sounds, maps, and other media.
- PixabayHuge variety of public domain images. Warning: the first row of images in any search are sponsored results from Shutterstock and are not in the public domain.
- Creative Commons SearchPortal for searching various sites for Creative Commons images, audio, video, and other media. Select a site to begin your search; your currently selected site will be highlighted in light blue.
- Links to more on Copyright Guide
Create Your Own Images
Infographics, Wordles, Timelines, Charts, Graphs, Etc...
- Easel.lyA user-friendly tool that allows you to create and export infographics. You will need to create a free log-in.
- TagxedoAllows you to create word clouds with more customization options, including shapes and colors. Does not require you to create an account.
- Meme GeneratorAdd a little humor by refining a popular meme.