Content sources and copyright

Public-domain classics

Our classic-text catalogue identifies selected English novels that are in the public domain in the United States. These texts may be used commercially in the United States without permission from the original copyright owner. We do not claim exclusive copyright in the underlying novels.

The designation applies to the original novel text. It does not automatically cover modern translations, new illustrations, cover artwork or other separately protected material. Copyright status outside the United States may differ.

Source acknowledgements

The reference list below identifies the digital sources for our curated classic catalogue. Source acknowledgements are provided for transparency. Readlyi is not affiliated with or endorsed by Project Gutenberg, and does not market these books as Project Gutenberg products.

The reading editions omit the source platform’s distribution wrapper and illustrations, and are formatted into chapters for this service. We do not claim that every work available from the same source is public domain or licensed for commercial use.

Reading access

Membership or chapter charges, where shown, are charges for access through the Readlyi reading service. They do not purchase exclusive ownership of a public-domain work or restrict your rights in its public-domain text. Free source editions can be found through the references below.

AI-generated fiction

Titles marked “AI-generated” are identified by the publisher as having been created using artificial intelligence. The label appears on book cards, book details and reading pages, including chapter previews.

The label describes the declared method of creation. It is not a copyright registration, proof of third-party permission, or confirmation of approval by a payment provider. Original public-domain classics retain their separate source and copyright notices.

Other titles and corrections

A public-domain designation for a classic does not determine the origin or rights of other titles. An AI-generated label, where applicable, describes how text was produced and is not a substitute for permission to use protected material.

Please contact support with the title, page URL and supporting information if an attribution or rights statement needs correction.