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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Amy Smorodin
March 21 , 2006
(202) 289-8928
   
Orphan Works: A Search for Solutions
PFF Hosts Event to Discuss Issues Surrounding Copyrighted Orphan Works

WASHINGTON D.C. - Orphan works are works in which the copyright owner cannot be located to request usage or licensing of the work. Without the ability to license, these works could be lost to obscurity. However, the enforcement of copyright permission is imperative for artistic control and compensation, and to encourage future creation. What is the best way to handle these orphan works? To explore these topics, The Progress & Freedom Foundation is hosting a Congressional Seminar on March 31st at the Rayburn House Office Building. "Orphan Works: A Search for Solutions" will provide a forum for representatives from multiple perspectives in the debate.

The issue of orphan works presents a unique quandary for artists, end-users, and copyright officials. In January, the U.S. Copyright Office proposed legislative language to Congress that would allow use of these works as long as a reasonable search for the owner is done. The language also protects the end-users from financial liability beyond payment for use if the owner later surfaces. Speakers at the Congressional Seminar, including Jule Sigall, Associate Register for Policy & International Affairs at the US Copyright Office, will discuss this and other proposals for dealing with orphan works. Other panel members will be announced prior to the event.

"Orphan Works: A Search for Solutions" will be held in room B-369 of the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C. from 12:00pm - 2:00pm. Lunch will be served. Those interested in attending can register here. Questions concerning the event should be directed to Eileen Goulding at egoulding@pff.org or 202-289-8928. Media enquiries should be directed to Amy Smorodin at 202-289-8928 or asmorodin@pff.org.

The Progress & Freedom Foundation is a market-oriented think tank that studies the digital revolution and its implications for public policy. It is a 501(c)(3) research & educational organization.

 

 

The Progress & Freedom Foundation