Intellectual Property

The British Library is concerned that the shift from print to digital publishing is undermining the traditional balance at the heart of copyright in ways that could make it harder for researchers to access and use information.

We believe that the UK needs an intellectual property framework appropriate for the digital age.

Introduction

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The British Library is concerned that the shift from print to digital publishing is undermining the traditional balance at the heart of copyright in ways that could make it harder for researchers to access and use information.

We believe that the UK needs an intellectual property framework appropriate for the digital age.

We are at a crossroads. Golden Opportunity or Digital Black Hole?

The Golden Opportunity is a vibrant research environment which fully utilises technological developments for education and research which in turn supports the UK’s knowledge economy.

The Digital Black Hole is digital lockdown, where access is restricted and education, research and the knowledge economy are stifled.

Supporting Case Studies

Driving UK Research? Is Copyright a help or a hindrance?

Jul 2010: Essays from leading researchers on their views on copyright laws in the digital age


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Speeches and Positions

Position Papers

      Consultation responses


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      Events

      Listen to the debate 'Golden Opportunity or Digital Black Hole?', 5 May 2009, (MP3, 30.5 MB) with Dame Lynne Brindley, David Lammy MP, Torin Douglas, Dr Annette Davison, Simon Tanner and Rod Bristow

      Listen to the debate 'Authors and Publishers in the Digital Age', 2 April 2008 (MP3, 68.3 MB)

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      In the Media

      Related Links

    • WIPO - World Intellectual Property Organisation
    • UKIPO - United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office
    • The British Library is not responsible for the content of exteranl internal sites

      Key Statistics

      • We estimate that over 40% of in-copyright works are orphan works
      • Analysis of 100 contracts offered to the British Library PDF

      FAQs

      If you would like further information on any of our work concerning intellectual property please contact the British Library policy team.

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      Policy Contacts

      Susan Adams
      Head of Advocacy
      + 44 (0) 20 7412 7237
      susan.adams@bl.uk

      Tom Johnson
      Advocacy Officer
      + 44 (0) 20 7412 7115
      tom.johnson@bl.uk

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