If you go the traditional publishing route, the publisher usually handles the copyright page for you.
But if you’re self-publishing? That part lands on your plate.
And yeah, it can feel a little intimidating at first. Tiny print. Legal-sounding language. Stuff that feels like it should come with a law degree.
I remember staring at my first copyright page thinking, “There is no way I’m getting this right.”
Here’s the good news: it’s not nearly as complicated as it looks.
A copyright page isn’t about memorizing legal jargon or covering every possible edge case. It’s really just about saying who owns the book and not making things harder than they need to be.
Once you understand the basics, the rest falls into place pretty quickly.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what a copyright page does (and doesn’t do), what’s optional versus standard, and how to put together a clean, professional version without overthinking it. I’ve also included copy-and-paste templates you can adapt for different book types.
Before we dive in, here’s a quick snapshot of the most important things to know.
Key Takeaways: Book Copyright Pages
- A copyright page does not create copyright protection. Your work is protected the moment it is created, but the page clearly communicates ownership and rights.
- While not legally required, including a copyright page is standard publishing practice for both print books and ebooks.
- A basic copyright page only needs a copyright notice and a rights-reserved statement; most other elements are optional.
- ISBNs are identifiers used by retailers and distributors, not proof of copyright, and requirements vary by format and sales platform.
- Library cataloging elements like LCCNs and CIP data are optional and primarily relevant if you plan to distribute books to libraries.
- Copyright pages can include disclaimers, credits, and edition details, but they should be tailored to your book type and publishing goals.
- Formatting matters (especially for ebooks) to ensure important front-matter pages aren’t skipped by reading devices.
Quick disclaimer before we go any further: I’m not a lawyer. Nothing here is legal advice. This is just practical publishing guidance from someone who’s spent a lot of time in the weeds. That’s the whole disclaimer.
Why Should You Trust Me?
I’ve been writing and formatting books for a long time now (well over a decade).
But that alone doesn’t mean much. Plenty of experienced writers still feel unsure when it comes to the technical parts of a book, especially things like front matter and formatting.
What actually taught me this stuff was running into the same problems you’re probably thinking about right now and having to solve them. Over and over again.
That’s ultimately why I helped build Atticus. Not as a “look at my software” thing, but because I was tired of guessing whether pages like the copyright page were set up correctly, especially across different formats.
Between formatting my own books and helping thousands of other authors do the same, I’ve spent a lot of time digging into what actually matters, what’s standard practice, and what’s just unnecessary noise.
That includes copyright pages.
If you want to go deeper, this article is part of a larger series that breaks down the different parts of a book: what they’re for, when you need them, and how to set them up without overthinking it. You can find the full walkthrough in my in-depth guide.
If you’re with me so far, keep reading. I’ll walk you through what you really need to know.
Side Note: All These Templates are Available in Atticus
By the way, if you own Atticus, creating these copyright templates is incredibly simple.
If you don't know what Atticus is: it's one of the best book formatting software out there! Just a few clicks and you have a book that is beautifully formatted with a solid copyright page.
Check Out Atticus
Copyright Page, in Plain English (Quick Summary)
A copyright page is the “legal and metadata” page of your book.
It does two main jobs:
- It signals ownership (who owns the rights and when the work was published)
- It shares publishing details (ISBN, edition info, credits, disclaimers, and more)
What it doesn’t do: it doesn’t “create” copyright protection by itself. In the U.S., your work is protected as soon as it’s fixed in a tangible form (written, saved, recorded). The copyright page just makes that claim visible.
What is a Copyright Page for?
A copyright page tells readers your book is protected and not part of the public domain.
In other words, it’s your intellectual property. People generally can’t legally copy or distribute it without your permission, except where the law allows (like fair use). This page also includes information useful for librarians, booksellers, distributors, and retailers.
You’ll typically place it on the back of the title page (known as the verso) in the front matter. If you want to learn more about front matter and back matter, I’ve got a full article on that here.
A copyright page can include several elements, each serving a different purpose.
For example, traditionally published books often list the publisher’s contact information so retailers can order more copies. Self-published authors usually include their author website instead.
You can also add a legal disclaimer to limit liability. For example, if your cookbook includes recipes with raw eggs, you might note the potential health risks.
And if your book goes through multiple printings, the edition number and printer’s key can help collectors and libraries track those versions down the line.
Do You Need a Copyright Page?
If you want to add an extra layer of clarity and protection to your book (whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, a bestseller, or something with a smaller audience) then yes, you should include a copyright page.
Now, here’s an important point: your book is automatically copyrighted the moment you write it. You don’t need a special page to make that happen. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, copyright protection exists from the moment a work is fixed in a tangible form.
But without a copyright page, your ownership claim is less visible. Including one doesn’t replace copyright registration, but it does make your claim clearer and harder to ignore.
It also acts as a deterrent. Think of it like a “No Trespassing” sign. Technically, people shouldn’t trespass with or without the sign, but posting it sends a clear message.
Plus, a copyright page is where you can add legal disclaimers to protect yourself from liability — especially helpful if your book includes things like medical advice, recipes, or financial tips.
At a minimum, most authors include a copyright notice and a rights reserved statement. Like this:
© 2026 Dave Chesson. All rights reserved.
Important clarification: A copyright notice is not legally required for protection in the United States. Your work is protected the moment it’s created.
However, including a copyright notice and “All rights reserved” statement is still strongly recommended because it clearly communicates ownership and discourages misuse.
There are several elements that you don’t need on a copyright page but that you might consider adding for various reasons.
Below are several examples showing how copyright pages are typically set up for different types of books:
Copyright Page Templates
The templates below cover the most common publishing scenarios. You can copy and paste the version that fits your book, then adjust details like names, dates, and credits as needed.
Basic Copyright Page Template
All you need is a copyright notice and a rights reserved notice to create a standard copyright page.
You have my permission to copy this template below and use it however you wish.
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
Note: While a copyright notice isn’t legally required for protection in the United States, this format is widely used and clearly communicates ownership to readers and retailers.
General Fiction Copyright Page Template
If what you need is a fiction book copyright page template to copy and paste into your self-published book, here it is.
You have my permission to use it as you like.
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact [include publisher/author contact info].
The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, or products is purely coincidental.
Book Cover by [Artist]
Illustrations by [Illustrator]
[Edition Number] edition [Year of Publication]
General Nonfiction Copyright Page Template
If all you need is a nonfiction copyright page template to copy and paste into your self-published book, here it is.
Use it as you like — you have my full permission.
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is provided with the understanding that neither the author nor the publisher is engaged in rendering legal, financial, medical, or other professional services. While the author and publisher have used their best efforts in preparing this book, they make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your specific situation. You should consult a qualified professional where appropriate. Neither the author nor the publisher shall be liable for any losses or damages resulting from the use of this information.
Book Cover by [Artist]
Illustrations by [Illustrator]
[Edition Number] edition [Year of Publication]
Public Domain Copyright Page Template
If you're publishing a public domain book, you need a copyright page for that as well. Because even though the content of a public domain book is in the public domain, any original contributions you make (annotations, illustrations, book covers, etc.) are all copyrightable.
Here is a template, which you can use with my permission.
[Source Material Title] is in the public domain. All original additions to this edition, including illustrations and chapter summaries, are copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name] and may not be reproduced without permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
Book Cover by [Artist]
Illustrations by [Illustrator]
[Edition Number] edition [Year of Publication]
Important note: Copyright protection applies only to the original material added in this edition. The original public domain text itself remains free for anyone to use.
Memoir Copyright Page Template
Memoirs are slightly different because you often need to protect the privacy of the individual.
Here is my template which you can use however you like.
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact [include publisher/author contact info].
For privacy reasons, some names, locations, and dates may have been changed.
Book Cover by [Artist]
Illustrations by [Illustrator]
[Edition Number] edition [Year of Publication]
Note: Changing names or details can help protect privacy, but it does not automatically protect against defamation or other legal claims. If your memoir discusses real people or sensitive events, consider seeking legal advice.
Low or No Content Books Copyright Page Template
A low content book generally only needs a simple copyright, such as the below template.
Although since art is often a big part of low-content books (coloring books for example), you should definitely include artists on this page.
Feel free to use this.
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
Cover by [Artist]
Illustrations by [Illustrator]
Note: For low- or no-content books, copyright protection generally applies to original artwork, illustrations, and creative text, not to blank pages, forms, or purely functional layouts.
AI Disclosure Copyright Page Template
Some authors choose to disclose whether artificial intelligence tools were used during the writing or editing process. While this is not legally required, an AI disclosure can help set expectations for readers and add transparency, especially as questions around AI-assisted content become more common.
Below are two example copyright page templates showing how an AI disclosure might be included. You can adapt the wording and placement to fit your book.
If AI tools were used:
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
This book was written by the author with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools. All ideas, structure, and final editorial decisions are the author’s own.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
If AI tools were not used:
Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]
All rights reserved.
This book was written entirely by the author without the use of artificial intelligence tools.
No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.
If you include an AI disclosure, keep it factual and specific. Avoid broad claims about ownership or originality that could create confusion.
Formatting Your Copyright Page
Copyright pages require specific formatting. Not all writing or formatting software handles this by default, so it’s important to double-check. (I’ll share my recommended tool in just a second.)
Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Placement: The copyright page typically comes right after the title page. In print books, it’s often the second page. In ebooks, placement can vary depending on retailer and formatting.
- Alignment: For print books, copyright text is often aligned bottom-left, though some publishers center it. In ebooks, alignment is typically handled automatically by the reading device or formatting software.
- Font size: In print books, the font is often smaller than the main body text to keep the page clean and unobtrusive. In ebooks, readers usually control font size, so this is less critical.
Don’t stress if your copyright page doesn’t look identical across formats. Consistency and clarity matter more than strict visual rules.
If you’re using Microsoft Word or Google Docs, you’ll likely need to handle this formatting manually, which can be tedious.
That’s one reason I recommend Atticus. It automatically formats your copyright page correctly, so you don’t have to wrestle with spacing, alignment, or font sizes. Even better, many of the templates we’ve discussed are already built into the program.
What's more, Atticus has many of the copyright templates listed above, built into the program!
To use these templates, all you have to do is add a new element by going to the three dots next to Add Chapter.
Then scroll up to where it says Copyright Templates and select your desired template.
Once you have the template, you simply fill it in with your specific information and presto! You've got a solid copyright page.
What Does a Copyright Page Include?
A copyright page may include the following 15 elements (though not all 15 appear on every copyright page):
- Copyright notice (required)
- Rights reserved notice (required)
- ISBN
- Library of Congress Control Number
- Disclaimers
- Permissions notice
- Credits
- Print edition
- CIP data block
- Ordering information
- Author’s website
- Printing details
- Trademarks
- Printer’s key
- Publisher information
Only the copyright notice and rights reserved notice are commonly included on even the simplest copyright pages. But the other elements may help readers, retailers, or libraries find important information about the book, the author, or its publication details.
Don't think of this list as a checklist. Most books only use a handful of these elements, depending on format, genre, and where the book is sold.
I know it looks crazy. But don’t worry. I’ll explain each one below and provide an example for all 15 copyright page elements.
1. Copyright Notice
The copyright notice is one of the two most common elements on a copyright page. It tells the public who owns the rights to the book, when it was published, and that the content is protected.
A proper copyright notice includes three parts:
- The copyright symbol ©, the word “Copyright,” or the abbreviation “Copr.” (Choose one)
- The year of first publication (you can include multiple years if the book has new editions)
- The name of the copyright holder (usually your name, pen name, or publishing company)
Here’s what a typical copyright notice looks like:
While a copyright notice isn’t legally required for protection in the United States, it’s still widely used and recommended for clarity.
What if I use a pen name?
Using a pen name is perfectly fine. On your copyright page, you can list either your pen name or your publishing company name. Both are valid.
When you register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office, you’ll have the option to include both your real name and pen name. That keeps your legal records accurate without revealing your identity in the book itself.
What if I write under my own LLC?
If you’re publishing under an LLC or sole proprietorship, you can list your company as the copyright owner. The formatting doesn’t change — just use the company name instead of your personal name.
You should also use your business address when adding publisher contact info. This helps protect your privacy as your audience grows, and ensures any fan mail (or official communication) gets routed properly.
If you're thinking about setting up your own publishing company, I recommend reading my full guide on how to create a publishing company. For important updates on LLC reporting requirements, be sure to check out our article on beneficial ownership information.
2. Rights Reserved Notice (All Rights Reserved)
The rights reserved notice is one of the most common elements on a copyright page. It reinforces your ownership claim by making it clear others can’t copy or distribute your book without permission.
You can keep it short and simple by stating:
All rights reserved.
Or you can expand the language for more clarity and legal weight.
Here’s a basic example that combines the copyright notice and the rights reserved statement:
© 2021 Dave Chesson. All rights reserved.
Technically, that’s all you need. If your copyright page includes a copyright notice and the phrase “All rights reserved,” you’re covered. This language doesn’t grant copyright protection by itself, but it clearly communicates that you’re not licensing or waiving any rights.
Still, many authors prefer to include a longer version. Here are some options you can choose from:
All Rights Reserved Example #1 (Simplest)
All Rights Reserved.
All Rights Reserved Example #2
All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever. For information, contact the publisher at: permissions@publisher.com.
All Rights Reserved Example #3
All rights reserved. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise) without prior written permission of the publisher, except as provided by United States of America copyright law and fair use. For permission requests, write to the publisher, “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at the address below.
3. ISBN
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique identifier for your book. It doesn’t serve a legal purpose, but the publishing industry uses it to distinguish your book from others in the marketplace.
If your book has an ISBN, it should be listed on the copyright page. Some books — especially ebooks sold through certain retailers — don’t require an ISBN, while most print editions and wide distribution formats do.
Here’s what it might look like:
ISBN 978-1-4767-9386-4 (print)
Does my book need an ISBN?
In most cases, yes (especially for print editions or wide ebook distribution). However, some platforms don’t require one.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Amazon (Kindle eBook): No ISBN required
- Apple Books (EPUB): No ISBN required (optional)
- Barnes & Noble Press (EPUB): ISBN required or provided by B&N
- Libraries and bookstores (print): Yes
(Note: Apple Books confirms that ISBNs are optional for ebooks distributed through its platform.)
So, it really depends on where you plan to sell your book.
Want to learn more about ISBNs and print formats? Check out my article on Self-Publishing Hardcover Books to learn more about ISBNs.
Where to get an ISBN in different countries:
- ISBN in the US – isbn.org
- ISBN in Canada – collectionscanada.gc.ca/publishers/index-e.html
- ISBN in the UK – nielsenisbnstore.com
- ISBN in Australia – bowker.com/products/ISBN-AU.html
- ISBN in New Zealand – natlib.govt.nz/publishers-and-authors/isbns-issns-and-ismns
For ISBN agencies in other countries, visit the International ISBN Agency.
Do I need a separate ISBN for each eBook format?
Often, yes. If you’re assigning ISBNs, each distinct format is typically treated as a separate product. For example:
- Kindle eBook
- EPUB eBook
- Paperback
- Hardcover
- Audiobook
Each of those counts as a different format. If you plan to publish across all five, you’ll need five ISBNs.
Go to the ISBN-issuing website here for more details on ISBNs for eBooks.
Do I need an ISBN if I’m a self-publisher?
In many cases, yes. Just like any other publisher, self-publishers use ISBNs for most print formats and for some ebook distribution channels.
In the United States, ISBNs are issued through Bowker. You can purchase official ISBNs at MyIdentifiers.com.
Pro tip: If you plan to publish more books (or multiple versions of the same book), it’s cheaper to buy a block of 10 ISBNs upfront. You’ll save money in the long run.
4. Library of Congress Control Number
The Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) is a free number you can get that facilitates libraries cataloging your book. Authors can apply online to the Preassigned Control Number (PCN) program. The PCN program is intended for U.S. publishers planning to distribute print books to libraries.
This is most useful if you want your book cataloged by libraries. An LCCN helps librarians identify and catalog your book more easily, but it is not an absolute requirement for a book to be shelved.
Side note: LCCN is a separate (but similar) number from the Cataloging in Publication (CIP) data block.
Here’s what an LCCN looks like on a copyright page:
5. Disclaimers
Disclaimers are where you deny responsibility for particular aspects of your book, such as denying characters were based on actual persons. A disclaimer helps protect the writer and publishing company from potential liability.
An entire book could be written on disclaimers alone. As legal and liability concerns have increased over time, book disclaimers have become much more common.
Some genres, like investing or health, might require specific language to stay compliant with the SEC.
For some sample disclaimer language, look inside other books of your genre published by traditional publishing companies large enough to have a legal staff.
A legal disclaimer in your book copyright page doesn’t have to be long. But a small disclaimer might save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Keep in mind that disclaimers don’t override the law or eliminate all legal risk. They simply help set expectations and reduce misunderstandings.
Here’s Kindlepreneur’s disclaimer:
We are not lawyers. This website and the content provided herein are simply for educational purposes and do not take the place of legal advice from your attorney. Every effort has been made to ensure that the content provided on this website is accurate and helpful for my readers at publishing time. However, this is not an exhaustive treatment of the subjects. No liability is assumed for losses or damages due to the information provided. You are responsible for your own choices, actions, and results. You should consult your attorney for your specific publishing and disclaimer questions and needs.
Below is another example of a disclaimer, but in a nonfiction book:
Some of the recipes in this book include raw eggs. Raw eggs may contain bacteria. It is recommended that you purchase certified salmonella-free eggs from a reliable source and store them in the refrigerator. You should not feed raw eggs to babies or small kids. Likewise, pregnant women, elderly persons, or those with a compromised immune system should not eat raw eggs. Neither the author nor the publisher claims responsibility for adverse effects resulting from the use of the recipes and/or information found within this book.
Here’s an example of a book disclaimer about the resemblance to actual places, people, or events:
6. Permissions Notice
You need to put in a permissions notice if you used any copyrighted material with permission from the owner. This announces that you sought and obtained the necessary permissions.
This is different from the next element, credits, because a permissions notice is required only when you’ve used copyrighted material owned by someone else. Credits, by contrast, are typically a courtesy for contributors you hired or worked with directly, such as a cover designer.
Example of permissions notice on a copyright page:
7. Credits
Give credit to anyone who made a contribution to your book, such as:
- The graphic designer who created your book cover design
- Photographers whose photographs you used
- Your formatting service
- Editor(s)
- Proofreaders
Can I use a public domain photograph? You may use a photo in your book that is in the public domain. However, make sure it is actually public domain. No verbiage can protect you from accidentally using a copyrighted photo that you thought was public domain.
You are not legally required to credit public domain works, but some authors choose to do so as a courtesy or to document sources. You also do not need to use the PD-US logo.
Examples of credits on a copyright page:
8. Print Edition
Your book’s edition is a nice thing to include, especially if it is not the first edition. Simply write “Second Edition” or “Third Edition: December 2020”.
An edition refers to a meaningful revision of the content, not a routine reprint of the same version.
Here is an example of a print edition on your copyright page:
9. CIP (Cataloging in Publication) Data Block
Most self-published eBook authors won’t include a CIP data block. A Cataloging In Publication (CIP) data block is not required to publish or sell a book.
The Library of Congress can issue a CIP data block to eligible publishers. It is not something you can create for yourself. Most self-published authors are not eligible to obtain a Library of Congress CIP data block.
You can, however, pay to have a P-CIP (Publisher’s Catalog-in-Publication) data block generated for you. Having P-CIP data might make your book look more professional. It costs anywhere from $60-$100 and can be done by CIPblock.com.
In practice, the primary audience for CIP data is librarians. CIP data exists to help them categorize (“catalog”) your book in the library more quickly and easily. Unless you plan to market your book specifically to librarians, CIP data is unnecessary.
A CIP data block example looks something like this:
A side note for Canadian self-published authors
Library and Archives Canada does not issue Cataloguing in Publication (CIP) data for self-published books. Some publisher services are still available, including ISBNs, but CIP eligibility is limited to qualifying publishers.
If you are located outside of Canada, check with your country’s local copyright laws to make the right choice about CIP data for your copyright page.
10. Ordering Information
The ordering information section includes info for people or organizations wishing to order more copies of your book. Different information may be listed for people looking to make individual orders, bulk orders for bookstores, college classroom orders, etc.
Often, ordering information doesn’t apply to self-published ebooks, and many indie authors omit this section entirely unless they sell print books directly or in bulk.
Example of ordering information on the copyright page:
11. Author's Website
Include your author website on your copyright page so readers can easily find more of your work.
This is optional, but especially useful for print books and wide ebook distribution where readers may not otherwise see your author profile.
Here’s an example of what an author’s website looks like on the copyright page:
12. Printing Details
On the copyright page, you can include any details about your publishing company’s environmentally-friendly printing practices, the location of printing, fonts you used, etc.
This section is optional and is more common in traditionally published or offset-printed books than in print-on-demand or ebook formats.
Here are 3 examples of printing details to include on the copyright page:
13. Trademarks
Disclose any trademarks your publisher may hold to names, logos, or imprints included in your book.
This disclosure does not create trademark rights. It simply acknowledges existing trademarks and helps avoid confusion.
Example of a trademark on the copyright page:
14. Printer’s Key
The printer’s key is not typical for self-published books or eBooks. Most self-published authors using print-on-demand services can safely omit a printer’s key without any downside.
Ever wonder what that strange, long string of numbers float along near the bottom of the copyright page means? Those numbers are actually there for the publisher’s production department. They represent the printing number (or sometimes, the printing year).
Every publisher has its own unique method. Typically, they are in descending order, from left to right. However, they can be in ascending or even in random order.
They were initially put there so that the book’s printing plates wouldn’t need to be remade with each reprint. The applicable number was simply removed from the plate.
However, as digital printing and ebooks take over, these are likely to go extinct.
Side note: These numbers are helpful for book collectors. Just look for the lowest number on the list; that’s the printing you have.
Another note: A printer’s key is different from the edition number. There may be multiple printings of the same edition.
In the example below, the printer’s key indicates I have a copy from the book’s 2nd printing:
15. Publisher's Information
For traditionally published books, the publisher’s information is usually included so that readers know who and how to contact for reproduction permissions. This may include their address (or just the city), website, social media profile(s), logo, or other contact information.
For self-published authors, this section is optional and often replaced with an author name, imprint name, or author website instead of full publisher contact details.
Below is an example of publisher information on the copyright page of a traditionally published book:
How to Ensure an eReader Doesn't Skip Your Copyright
You may have noticed that when you open an eBook on a Kindle or other device, that it usually doesn't start at the very beginning (i.e. the cover of your book).
Instead, Amazon and other retailers estimate where the book starts, and in some cases this can lead to a reader starting at chapter 1 and skipping the front matter, including the copyright page!
So, assuming you want people to open to your copyright page (and you might not), you need a way for readers to start there, instead of chapter 1.
Thankfully, Atticus makes it easy to control where your ebook opens for first-time readers.
All you have to do is go to the Book Details and scroll down until you find the section labelled Start Page.
From there, you simply select where you would like readers to start when they open your book for the first time.
This setting affects the initial open experience; readers can still navigate freely once the book is open.
This inserts a special code into the eBook file that lets Amazon know exactly where to open the book for new readers. Simple as that!
Atticus lets you customize the Start Page of your book, works on virtually every platform, and costs over $100 less than many competing formatting tools.
Copyright FAQs
Your book is automatically copyrighted the moment you create it. That protection is built into U.S. law. However, registering your copyright makes it official and gives you additional legal benefits. To register, visit copyright.gov and follow the steps. Processing times vary, so it’s best to check the U.S. Copyright Office’s current timelines rather than relying on a fixed estimate. For a full walk-through, check out my article on how to copyright your book.
Copyright protection begins the moment your work is created, whether that’s typing it into a document or writing it by hand. Registration isn’t required for your work to be protected, but it does give you added legal leverage if your rights are ever violated. I recommend reading this quick primer on copyright basics from the U.S. Copyright Office.
No. Your copyright is valid the moment you create your content. That said, registering your copyright provides important legal advantages. In certain situations, registration allows you to seek statutory damages and attorney’s fees, in addition to actual damages. To preserve those additional remedies in the U.S., registration generally needs to happen before infringement occurs or within a short window after publication. Without registration, you can still sue for infringement, but your legal options may be more limited. If you live outside the U.S., be sure to check the copyright laws in your own country.
In many cases, authors publish first and then register their copyright afterward. Because registration can take 6 to 13 months, waiting would delay your launch unnecessarily and cost you potential sales. You don’t need to wait for your copyright registration to start earning money from your book.
No. Book titles, character names, and short phrases aren’t eligible for copyright protection. If you want to protect a series name or a brand, you may want to look into trademarking instead. But the actual copyright only covers the full creative content of your book, not the title.
Technically, no. Your work is copyrighted whether you include the symbol or not. But adding the copyright notice (with the © symbol, year, and your name) makes your claim more visible and harder to dispute. Think of it as an extra layer of clarity that discourages copying.
Copyright protects original creative works (like books, songs, and art). Trademarks protect brand elements like logos, slogans, and product names. So if you’re worried about someone stealing your actual book, that’s a copyright issue. But if you want to lock down your brand name or series title, you’ll want to explore trademarking.
In the U.S., you can register your copyright either before or after publication. Many authors publish first and register shortly afterward. However, registration timing can matter if you want access to certain legal remedies. If preserving the option to seek statutory damages and attorney’s fees is important to you, registering early (ideally within a few months of publication) can be beneficial.
If a new edition includes substantial new or revised content, it can be registered as a separate copyright. Minor changes or simple reprints typically don’t require a new registration.
No. At this time, there is no general legal requirement to disclose whether artificial intelligence tools were used in the writing or editing of a book. That said, some authors choose to include an AI disclosure for transparency or to set expectations for readers. Whether or not you include one is ultimately a publishing choice.
In most cases, copyright ownership depends on human authorship and creative control, not the tools used during the process. If you used AI tools as part of writing, editing, or brainstorming (and you made the final creative decisions), you are generally still considered the copyright holder. When in doubt, consult an attorney for advice specific to your situation.
No. An ISBN is a commercial identifier used by retailers and distributors. It has no legal effect on copyright protection. Copyright registration is handled separately through the appropriate government office.
While not legally required, including a copyright page in an ebook is considered standard practice. It clearly communicates ownership, publication details, and any disclaimers, just like in print books.
Yes. You can update your copyright page when releasing new editions, correcting errors, or adding new information such as updated credits or edition details.
Final Thoughts on Book Copyright Pages
Creating a copyright page might seem like a small detail, but it plays an important role in clearly communicating ownership and presenting your book professionally.
You don’t need to be a lawyer to get it right. With the templates and guidance above, you can create a clear, well-structured copyright page that follows common publishing standards, whether you’re releasing your first book or your fiftieth.
And if you’re using a tool like Atticus, much of the formatting and setup is handled for you automatically. That means less time worrying about layout details and more time focused on writing and publishing your book.
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Editorial Note: This article was reviewed and updated in January 2026 to improve accuracy and clarity around copyright pages, ISBN requirements, library cataloging data, and publishing best practices, based on current guidance from official sources and industry standards.
