The discussion of copyright law presented here begins with a summary of a few basic aspects of American copyright law. It then goes on to discuss the particular application of this law to educational broadcasting by explaining first copyright law itself and then the historical doctrine of "fair use". "Fair use" is not mentioned in the copyright law but has been progressively developed by the American court to avoid unduly harsh copyright enforcement. The specific application of these principles of law to the use of books and periodicals, music and records, motion pictures, television programs, filmstrips, and photographs is discussed in regard to their use in educational broadcasts. Some of the most recent developments in copyright litigation are briefly summarized in conclusion. A selected bibliography is appended. (JY)