The United States Copyright Office has released a strategic plan focusing on the years 2016-2020. The plan calls for the following:

1. Administering copyright laws efficiently, effectively, and skillfully
2. Creating a search engine that is easy to use and thorough in providing
information to search engine users
3. Providing impartial expert opinions to other agencies, judicial courts,
and branches of the U.S. government
4. Providing resources to the public such as information services,
educational programs, and publications
5. Implementing new technology resources to meet future “modern” needs
6. Encouraging diversity among potential pools of staff and expert hires

Maria A. Pallante, who is the United States Register of Copyrights and Director of the U.S. Copyright Office, states, “The Office has always served the public with distinction, but there is no question that it must now modernize to meet current and future needs.” She further states that the vision for the plan is to streamline transactions with the office so that, with the latest technology, individuals can easily gather information already copyrighted and seamlessly apply for a copyright themselves.

The Copyright Office has completed exhaustive internal evaluations and reached out to the public to learn what needed to be improved. Between 2011 and 2013, the agency held public inquiries, completed fact-finding investigations, and special projects. Over the next two years, the Copyright Office held public roundtables, produced reports, and participated in Congressional hearings. From there, the five-year strategic plan was born.

Navigating copyright law and staying on top of any and all changes to the law can be challenging. Speaking with an attorney who is experienced in intellectual property law, from its inception to the appeals process, is essential to protecting your rights. For more information, contact the experienced attorneys at AGMB at 310-300-2900 for the Los Angeles office, or at 212-201-1170 for the New York office.

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