These notable works enter the public domain in 2026

Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.

Betty Boop, 'Blondie' and Nancy Drew entering the public domain in 2026

The works entering the public domain also include “All Quiet on the Western Front,” William Faulkner’s “As I Lay Dying” and ...
Smithsonian Magazine

Happy Public Domain Day to All Who Celebrate! You Can Now Use Betty Boop, Nancy Drew and ‘The Maltese Falcon’ for Free

On January 1, 2026, copyrights will expire for comics, books, movies, musical compositions and other creative works from 1930 ...
PCMag

All Aboard for the Creative Works Entering the Public Domain in 2026

The list of 1930 classics that will no longer have copyright protections on Jan. 1 includes the first appearances of The ...

Blondie and Dagwood are entering the public domain, but Betty Boop still may be trapped in copyright jail

Beloved characters entering the public domain with the new year include Blondie, Dagwood, Dick and Jane and Nancy Drew, but ...