Can you use an old train schedule or advertisement in a book?
2 attorney answers
Yes, you can use anything protected by copyright as of 1925, since any copyrights in those newspaper ads would have expired after a 95 year term.
As for the train schedules,those may not have ever enjoyed copyright protection, lacking even the small amount of creativity necessary,
You should see your own entertainment counsel to get your book "vetted" to make sure there's no infringement of anyone's rights, and to secure its own copyright registration.
Avvo doesn't pay us for these responses, and I'm not your lawyer just because I answer this question or respond to any follow-up comments.
To add to my colleague's answer, you additionally asked about using advertisements. While the copyright answer above is correct on the train schedules, depending on the advertising, your use of the advertisement, and other factors, the use might create a question on trademark law (e.g. an image of Mickey Mouse could be a copyright and an trademark). Consult with your attorney.
This answer is provided for informational purposes only, does not constitute legal advice, should not be relied upon as legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. The response given is not intended to create, nor does it create, an ongoing duty to respond to questions. Actual legal advice can only be provided after completing a comprehensive consultation in which all of the relevant facts are discussed and reviewed. If you believe you may have a legal need, you should seek the counsel of an attorney who can discuss the law as it pertains to the facts of your unique circumstances. To the extent additional or different facts exist, this answer may differ. Attorney is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida.
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Thank you for a prompt response, it was very helpful.