What is a derivative work?

A derivative work is defined as a new, original product that incorporates elements from a previously existing work. This can include adaptations, modifications, or transformations of the original source material, making it recognizable as a distinct yet related creation. The key aspect of a derivative work is its reliance on a prior work, while at the same time adding unique value or expressing new ideas through the use of that source.

The concept of derivative works is critical in the realm of copyright law, as these works are often subject to copyright protection themselves, although they may also require permission from the original creator, depending on the extent of the transformation and the nature of the original material.

In this context, the other choices do not accurately capture the definition of a derivative work. For example, a collection of preexisting materials arranged to form a new original work refers to an anthology or compilation, which is distinct from merely being derivative. A copyright law exception for libraries pertains to specific provisions that allow certain uses of copyrighted material under specific circumstances, not to the creation of new works. Metadata that characterizes an information artifact focuses on the descriptive and structural information associated with data, rather than on the concept of derivative works themselves.