Liverpool Libraries Intellectual Property Services
Liverpool Libraries is part of PATLIB UK. This is a network of libraries throughout the UK providing information on Intellectual Property.
Your ideas are a valuable resource and there are several methods that can be used to protect them. The blanket term for this protection is known as Intellectual Property and it is divided into Patents, Trade Marks, Design and Copyright.
Patents
If you develop a process or product that is new or inventive you can apply for a Patent. This will grant you protection for a set number of years. In the UK you will get 20 years protection as long as you pay the renewal fees each year.
Similar protection can be obtained in other countries or by applying for a European or World Patent.
For further information visit to the UK Intellectual Property Office.
We offer facilities for enquirers by post, phone and e-mail and also offer facilities for the personal searcher.
Contact details below:
- Email: refbt.central.library@liverpool.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0151 233 5835
- Post enquiries to: Liverpool Central Library, William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EW
Patent Clinic
A confidential half hour meeting with a patent attorney by appointment - see Library contact details below. These clinics provide an opportunity to discuss an invention with a patent attorney. Search facilities are available.
- LIVERPOOL INVENTOR`S CLUB
- Next Meeting : Monday 30th June 2008
- Time: 5.00 pm - 6.30 pm
- Hornby Room, Liverpool Central Library
Presenter : Nigel Musson - Consultant with McParland Finn Insurance Brokers Ltd
Presenting : "IP insurance and how to get the best deal "
This club meets in the Central Library on the last Monday of each month.
A trade mark is a valuable business asset and is normally a word, phrase, picture or logo in a sign which distinguishes your business from any other. Search facilities and a range of leaflets are available in Central Library.
Copyright
Copyright is an automatic right which covers the expression of an idea i.e. it can cover literary, musical, artistic and dramatic works and lasts for 70 years after the creators death. Sound recording copyright lasts for 50 years.
Further information is available in Central Library.
Designs
Design applies to the physical appearance of an item, and relates to its appearance rather than how it works. Protection by a registered design gives exclusive rights to use the design and can last initially for 5 years, but can be extended to 25 years.
Unregistered design right lasts for 10 years and is a right to prevent copying.
Further information is available in the Central Library.