Copyright and the Electronic Library
by Charles Oppenheim

Wednesday 22nd Half-day Max.

This four-hour workshop will examine copyright law from the point of view of those librarians who are grappling with electronic materials. It starts with a basic overview of copyright law, and then considers the problems caused by electronic materials and the Internet. It also considers the copyright status of materials on the Internet, and the legality of linking and framing.
The reactions of copyright owners to recent technical developments are then considered, with an emphasis on the EU Directive on Copyright and Related Rights that came into effect in most EU Member States during 2003. The implications of this Directive, especially for those in the commercial sector, and the implications of the new laws on so-called Technical Protection Measures, such as Digital Rights Management Systems will be considered. It will be noted that although the Directive was designed to harmonise copyright law throughout the Union, it has totally failed to do so. The workshop will conclude with some thoughts about the future of copyright in the electronic environment.
The workshop assumes minimum prior knowledge of copyright law. Because it will cover principles and developments at an EU level, it will not provide answers to specific questions regarding any one particular country’s laws, but rather will identify trends.
There will be ample time for questions and discussion throughout. Copies of the PowerPoint slides will be provided to all participants.

Profile and requirements of participants
Librarians, especially those in managerial positions or responsible for copyright clearance Detailed knowledge of copyright law not required

Provisional contents