SMU Libraries Guide to Copyright
This guide provides information and resources on Singapore copyright law and how it related to academic activities such as research and teaching in SMU. The contents in this guide are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
Please direct any questions on copyright or licenses for use of copyrighted works to the Copyright Librarian.
Copyright is an intellectual property right recognized and protected by law. In Singapore this is essentially covered under the Copyright Act (Cap. 63). Copyright exists in all forms of works, such as books, periodicals, magazines, compilations of information, photographs, manuscripts, computer programs, drawings, sculpture, music scores, lyrics, sound recordings, films, television broadcasts, cable programmes etc. Read more about the Singapore Copyright Act here and note the exceptions on Fair Dealing and Education, which allow for copying within the stipulated limits. The Act is currently being reviewed by Ministry of Law.
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Works that are in the public domain are not protected by copyright because:
Works in the public domain may be used without any limitations.
The Singapore Copyright Act allows you to use copyright material without permission if your use is a "fair dealing" for one of the following purposes:
For use that falls outside of the "fair dealing" exception, permission or an appropriate license should be obtained from copyright owners or collecting societies.
To learn more, visit the SMU Libraries Infosheet 1: Fair Dealing.
Creative Commons (CC) is a not for profit organization that helps the public to share creative content by providing free licenses and tools to content creators. CC content (including images, music and artwork) may be shared and reused according to the CC license applied.