The Hesburgh Libraries Copyright Team invites you to celebrate Public Domain Day with Mickey Mouse (aka Steamboat Willie), which enters the public domain in 2024. This means it is no longer covered by copyright law and can be freely viewed and distributed without licensing restrictions.
In addition to a viewing of the short film "Steamboat Willie" (with popcorn), this event will include a lecture by Susan Ohmer, professor emerita and Notre Dame’s Disney expert, who will discuss the history of the film’s debut and controversial censorship. Members of the Hesburgh Libraries Copyright Team will also briefly discuss the influence that Disney has had on copyright laws in the U.S.
Refreshments will be provided.
Open to undergraduates, graduate students, postdocs, faculty, and staff.
About Public Domain Day
The public domain covers works not protected by copyright.
Public Domain Day happens on January 1 of each year when new works enter the public domain. It’s a day to celebrate the lives of authors whose works have finally become available to the world to access and use freely. Join us for a series of events celebrating Public Domain Day.