This description of the copyright protection available for automated databases provides a definition of an automated database; discusses the extent of copyright protection, i.e., the compilation of facts; explains copyright registration and what constitutes publication of a database; and describes the procedures for registering both published and unpublished databases with the U.S. Copyright Office, including the form to be completed, deposit requirements, information on special relief and trade secrets, and the form and location of the copyright notice. Some points to remember and sources of additional information are also provided. (EW)