Seeking Permission

What is the best way to go about getting permission to use copyrighted works?
If the Church of the Brethren or Brethren Press owns or administers the copyright, you may contact us. If someone else owns the copyright, it is perfectly acceptable to contact the copyright owner or copyright administrator, which may be an individual or a corporate group. Some will grant permission over the phone. Others may require a written request, so plan ahead. Fortunately, fax machines and the Internet save time when the request must be put in writing.

The owner or administrator has the right to either grant or withhold permission. And they may charge a fee or royalty for the use.

It will save time for everyone if you provide the following information when requesting permission:

1. A description or copy of the material you are wanting to use, including the title of the book and page number
2. Name of author, composer, or editor
3. Name of copyright holder or administrator, date of copyright
4. An explanation of the intended use, including any adaptations and in what context
5. The number of copies being made
6. If the piece will be sold, the selling price of each copy and date of publication
7. The credit line as it will appear on the reproduction
8. Your name and contact information

Publishers' websites often provide specific guidelines and contact information as well.

What if I don't know how to contact a copyright holder?
First try to contact the company that published the piece. Be sure to have the creators name and the date of publication in hand when you call. If the publisher does not administer the copyright, they may be able to direct you to the creator or administrator of the rights. If you are stumped, you may contact us at Brethren Press. If we do not have the necessary information, the staff at your public library, bookstore, or music store may be able to help you. See our Helpful Links for additional help.

If you cannot locate the owner of the rights, do not use the work.

If a copyright holder does not respond to my permission request, can I assume that he or she doesn't care if I use their work?
No. You can try another avenue to reach them, but if you still don't succeed, you have to give up on the idea.