LIBER calls for copyright reform

European research library network LIBER has set out its views on European copyright reform through a position statement.

This statement prioritises three high-level principles. The first is that copyright should foster, not hinder, innovation and competitiveness. Second, it says, access to and use of publicly funded research should not be unduly restricted by copyright. The third principle is that preservation of, and access to, cultural heritage must be supported by copyright exceptions.

The LIBER Position Statement on Copyright in the Digital Age intends to 'highlight the areas where major reform is needed from the perspective of research libraries'.

LIBER says that it will be responding to the consultation and calls on each of its members to help progress copyright reform by sending their own views to the European Commission. The organisation says that it is important that as many individuals and institutions as possible respond to the consultation. 'There is much to be gained in instigating copyright reform in Europe and equally much to be lost if librarians do not speak up on behalf of their institutions and the users they support.' says LIBER.