Abstract: Some implementations include searching for and analyzing public-domain-status information about works (such as e-books) over the Internet. A computer system may search for works recently made available online that are categorized as being in the public domain. Associated metadata is analyzed to generate a confidence level regarding whether the works are in the public domain or protected by copyright. Based on the confidence level, decisions can be made, such as whether to make the works available for free in a particular country.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and processes for classifying a digital item are described. In some examples, a first classifier determines whether a digital item, such as an electronic book (eBook), includes content of a first category that is acceptable for publication by a publisher. A second classifier determines whether the digital item includes content of a second category that is acceptable for publication by a publisher. In response to determining that the digital item includes content of the first category or content of the second category, a third classifier may determine whether the digital item includes a phrase that is indicative of content of a third category that is unacceptable for publication.

Abstract: When a digital item is submitted for publication, an automated system may determine whether the digital item includes content from other digital items. In some implementations, when the digital item is an electronic book (eBook), the automated system may select sets of words from the eBook and compute hash codes, such that each hash code corresponds to a set of words. The automated system may compare the computed hash codes with retained hash codes associated with other electronic books to determine whether the digital item includes duplicate content.