can I use a picture of an out of print book cover?

or it it a copyright infringement

[annej]

It appears to me if I were selling the book I could post a picture of the cover. But in this case I would be using it to illustrate an article.

The book is a 1970 book and I can't locate the original publisher to ask them. The book doesn't even have an IBSN.

[BigDave]

Is the article about the book?

If that is the case, the use would probably be considered fair use.

If you are just planning on using it as some sort of pretty picture, then it is amost certain infringement.

[hunderdown]

Out of print doesn't mean out of copyright. Even if the publisher doesn't exist, their assets might be owned by an existing publisher.

I agree with the previous poster that it depends on how you want to use it.

[annej]

The article will be partially about the book but it won't be a book review. I will talk about other aspects of widgeting during the 70s. I could also link to places the book is sold which is very few.

I'd write and ask for permission if there was a way to know where to write.

[hunderdown]

IMO, that's at least arguably fair use. You could add a note saying you have been unable to trace the copyright holder....