EIFL-IP: copyright and libraries

Promoting a fair copyright system

Restrictive copyright laws create legal barriers to accessing resources for education, research and personal development. This can have significant consequences for libraries in developing and transition countries which have limited funds to purchase copyright-protected materials.

We advocate for a fair and balanced copyright system that supports libraries in providing access to knowledge.

EIFL-IP in action…

• Advocacy campaigns for national copyright law reform

• Playing a leadership role in promoting national and international copyright law reform. Learn more our international work or the key issues.

• Building capacity within the EIFL network through training in advocacy and copyright issues.  See EIFL workshops
• Providing valuable resources and expertise. See materials developed by EIFL.
• Empowering library professionals to become knowledgeable advocates and international proponents of fair access for all

Our Achievements

• 2011 saw the culmination of 5 years advocacy at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), when EIFL jointly presented a proposal for an international treaty for the benefit of libraries and archives at a landmark meeting in November 2011. Learn more.
• There is an EIFL copyright librarian in most EIFL partner countries, who has received training in copyright issues and advocacy for libraries. Meet the EIFL-IP network.
• The library community in EIFL partner countries is increasingly recognised as a stakeholder by policy-makers and allies, and is invited to take part in consultations.
• EIFL librarians from many countries including Moldova, Senegal, Slovakia, Uganda, Ukraine, Poland, Malawi and Zimbabwe have experienced international policy-making at the UN World Intellectual Property Organization. Learn about Libraries participating in policy making.
• We develop practical guides and resources to raise awareness about the library perspective in current copyright topics. Check out our latest guide Developing a Library Copyright Policy; Copyright for Librarians, an online open curriculum on copyright law available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French and Russian; the EIFL Handbook on Copyright and Related Issues available in seven languages or the EIFL-IP Draft Law on Copyright Including Model Exceptions and Limitations for Libraries and Consumers. Learn more about EIFL-IP resources.
• EIFL has built strong alliances with civil society groups working in the field of access to knowledge. 

Contact us

EIFL-IP Programme Manager: Teresa Hackett, teresa.hackett [at] eifl.net

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