How to Copyright a Book

You worked hard writing your book. Having it finished is like a dream come true. For some author's, it's more like giving birth. It can be really difficult for a writer to submit their work for book reviews, publishing or even contests for fear their hard work could be taken by others. All written work should be copyrighted. I will outline a method for you that won't cost you more than postage and will stand up in any court of law should it come to that.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Postage
• 2 Printed copies of your book
• Printed rough draft of your book
• 2 manila envelopes

1. 
   Print 2 copies of your book

   Print two copies of your finished book and place them in two separate manila envelopes.

2. Print two copies of any rough drafts you may have of your book. This will serve as proof of your evolving work.

3. Place each of these book sets into a manila envelope. Address one to yourself and the other to a trusted friend or family member.

4. Take these manila envelopes to your post office, in person, and assure they have visible, dated stamps placed on them.

5. 
   Keep your book in a safe place

   Once you receive your printed book in the mail, put it up someplace safe like a firesafe or a safety deposit box at an institution such as a bank. Instruct the person being sent the second copy to do the same.
   
   DO NOT OPEN THE ENVELOPE! This is key!

6. 
   Copyright that stands up in court

   If you ever find yourself needing to defend your copyright in court, bring your sealed envelopes. As they were dated by the post office, a federal government office and sealed, they will stand up in court. The judge must be the only one permitted to open your envelope, in view of everyone in court and documented in court records.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel more comfortable sending out more than the 2 copies, feel free to do so but two should suffice.
• Be sure to visit the link in the resources section below this article to learn more.

Resources

• Great Photos for Your Articles Here
• By The Way, If You Would Like To Learn How To Get Paid Writing Articles Like This, Click This Link And I Can Teach You How. I’ve Been Doing It And So And Can You!

[b0nesweeptedium]

on 12/16/2008 This would work if someone stole your entire book verbatim and published it as their own work, but offers nothing if someone steals your ideas and pass them off as their own.

Sure, you could prove that YOUR book was YOURS, but the third party could easily say that they were unaware of your book and that any similarities are coincidental and unintentional.

Someone steals your ending? This method would not help you out in court.

[juliebmack]

on 12/12/2008 Interesting method! Very good info. I "Dugg" it, too!

[celticeagle]

on 12/4/2008 Great info!

[scleveland]

on 11/15/2008 This is great information for up and coming authors like myself. Five Stars!

[Sidhartha]

on 11/14/2008 this is such great information!