I would like to know if there is a limit to copyright protection for photographs found on the internet or even old library books? I cannot afford the fees some of these folks are asking!

In books, wherever they may be found, there always is a copyright notice on the first pages. You must follow that.
On the other hand, the Internet is a jungle. Many copyrighted pictures are published illegally. Do not use them.

I believe that anything somebody else created even if they did protected it, it is automatically Copyrighted for at least 50 years (it could be 30 yrs)

Copyright exists on any original work.

Countries do have different laws, but basically if the work is not commercial, a simple email/fax to the owner asking permission to use the work is given. If not then don't use it.

If you intend to use the work in a publication that generates revenue for you or your company, you may be asked to provide some sort of fee.

Generally most people will let you use the work for free... IF you provide a creditation close to the work, it's for charity or it's for non-profit.

Remember, no written permission - don't use the work

Here is a good resource:
http://www.nolo.com/resource.cfm/cat...6BBD87E32/310/

Professionally created images are copyrighted for the life of the photographer plus 50 years.
Prairie Son, retired Pro