Sometimes it is unclear who owns the copyright of a work.
Circular 22 and Circular 23.
Harry Ransom Center's Guide to Obtaining Permission
AcqWeb's Directory of Publishers and Vendors (Last updated in 2004)
Copylaw.com - How to get Permission.
A Guide to Music Clearances and Permissions by Monica Corton
This guide is designed to share information on copyright and related topics. This guide does not supply legal advice nor is it intended to replace the advice of legal counsel.
Permission from copyright holders is sometimes necessary, especially when republishing content online or with traditional publishers. You need to obtain permission when you use a work in a way that infringes on the exclusive rights granted to a copyright holder.
Sample model permission letters from other universities:
Model Permission Form Letters from Columbia University.
Stanford Copyright and Fair Use Center - Basics of Getting Permission.
Vassar College Guide to Asking for Permission.
List of Collective Licensing Agencies from Columbia Universtiy.
Citizen Media Guide to Obtaining Permission.
DLib Magazine Article on Obtaining Permission.