can i use pictures from old books on my website or are they subject to copyright#?

Answer 1

No you cannot used previously published or copyrighted material anywhere without permission from either the author or the publisher.
It doesn't matter if it is no longer being published. It must be in the public domain.
Check you local library for more information.

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Answer 2

They are. The information in the book may be out of copyright, but the pictures are not. Even more so if they belong to a third party. For instance, if it is a scan of a painting, and they are discussing it in the book.

Answer 3

Generally speaking copyright applies only when you're trying to represent something or yourself, that belongs to someone else, that will either earn you financial reward, recognition or sell your product, instead of theirs ..... in otherwords if you use a copyrighted illustration for your own recognition and financial gain ... it must not be seen to be representative of yourself or only being recognised as you, in any way..... as for 'borrowing' in terms of illustrating a point you are making, then I believe I am correct in saying that this is ok so long as you make sure all identity and attributions are made to the original artist/publishing house..... and again are not for personal publicity, promotion or personal financial gain

I'll give you an example ....
I used to work for Unilever whose brand of margarine was particularly well known at one time as 'Blue Band Margarine' .... someone else came along and produced a margarine in a very similar tub with graphics and illustrations also similar and called it 'Blue Ribbon' .... the confusion I think is easy to see and Unilever won their case ......
By the same token if you produce an item that is similar in looks and function as that which has already been produced AND COPYRIGHTED by another, then you are infringing on their copyright .....
I hope the above helps (and makes sense!) ...

Answer 4

If the book is out of copyright then so is the picture.

Answer 5

if i were you i'd get my own pictures (draw, paint, photograph) myself, that way there will be no issues with copyright. copyright issues can tie up someones plans indefinitely and could cost way more money than you have.

Answer 6

They are most likely to be copyright material, hence you cannot use them unless you get permission from the person who has the copyright to such pictures. If you get such permission, I am sure that you have to mention in your writings that this person ( naming them ) has kindly given permission to use.