Q. How are websites addressed by copyright? Do I need permission to borrow content published on the web?

Generally speaking, yes. As soon as something is created in a fixed and tangible format it has copyright. Here are some additional tips:

• Copyright protection begins upon creation of the website.  A website does not have to have a copyright notice to be protected.
• You can link to another website from your own website without violating copyright.
  
• You should not link to an image on a website unless the owner grants permission.
• Look for material with a Creative Commons license; read the terms of use carefully.
• You are not required to obtain permission to use works that are in the public domain.  Much of the material published by the Federal government is under public domain.
  
• Always cite your sources.