Nancy Drew, Betty Boop Among 26 Notable Works Entering Public Domain in 2026

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

As of January 1, 2026, a significant collection of creative works will enter the public domain, providing a fresh opportunity for revival and accessibility. This includes iconic characters like Nancy Drew and Betty Boop, as well as several literary and cinematic classics from 1930.

Notable Works Entering Public Domain in 2026

The arrival of “Public Domain Day” on New Year’s Day allows a variety of artistic expressions to become freely accessible. This is crucial for community theaters, schools, and cultural organizations that rely on such works. Jennifer Jenkins and James Boyle from Duke University’s Center for the Study of the Public Domain emphasize the importance of these pieces in saving them from obscurity.

Key Literary Works

As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner – Listed among the top 20th-century novels.
Cimarron by Edna Ferber – The book won an Academy Award adaptation in 1931.
The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene – The debut of Nancy Drew will be available.
The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett – Celebrated as a significant 20th-century novel.
The Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie – Introduces the beloved Miss Marple character.

Iconic Films and Cartoons

All Quiet on the Western Front – This acclaimed film won Best Picture at the 1933 Academy Awards.
Dizzy Dishes – The cartoon marked the entrance of Betty Boop into popular culture.
The Big Trail – This film showcases John Wayne’s first lead role, filmed partly in Utah.
King of Jazz – Featuring Bing Crosby in his debut on the silver screen.

Music and Recordings

Compositions and recordings from 1925 will also join the public domain, adding to the diverse offerings available to the public.

With the expiration of copyrights on these works, the creative potential in 2026 is vast. Artists, educators, and the general audience will have the chance to explore, reinterpret, and enjoy these timeless pieces without legal restrictions.