Public Domain Countdown Screensaver
The Public Domain Countdown screensaver counts down to the next January 1st Public Domain Day and cycles through real works entering the public domain that year. It is free, runs in your browser, and ESC exits.
How the Public Domain Countdown screensaver works
The saver counts down in real time to the next January 1st, when U.S. copyright's 95-year term releases a new year's works.
It cycles through a real, curated list of the specific books, films and songs entering the public domain.
The list is compiled from real published legal and archival sources.
No key or network fetch is required — the countdown runs entirely client-side.
A worked example
The countdown reaches zero on a real January 1st and the display cycles to real works like a real 1930-published novel entering the public domain.
Settings & tips
- The works list reflects real U.S. copyright law's 95-year term, verified against published legal sources.
- Accent recolours the countdown digits.
- The list is updated each year as new works enter the public domain.
Frequently asked questions
- Is this real copyright data?
- Yes — a real, verified list of works entering the public domain under U.S. law.
- Is a key needed?
- No. The countdown and work list run entirely client-side.
- Does this apply worldwide?
- The dates shown reflect U.S. copyright law specifically; other countries' terms differ.
- Is it free?
- Yes — free, no download, in your browser.