Genealogy Q&A: Can You Copyright a Family History Book Idea?

Sign up for the Family Tree Newsletter! Plus, you’ll receive our 10 Essential Genealogy Research Forms PDF as a special thank you.

Get Your Free Genealogy Forms

"*" indicates required fields

Q: If someone mentioned an idea for a family history research book but hasn’t written it yet, is it considered a copyright violation if I write my own book on that subject? A: The short answer is no, because you can’t copyright an idea—only the tangible expression of an idea. Like patents (which protect inventions), View Website VIP Subscription

Writing