Intellectual Property Resources
The Los Angeles Public Library is a member of the Patent and Trademark Resource Center Program and assists the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in disseminating patent and trademark information to the public.
In the Science, Technology, and Patents Department at Central Library, we offer computerized searching of patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Library users perform their own searches. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask library staff for instructions on use. We also have collections in print and microfilm. During regular library hours, we provide some assistance by telephone at 213-228-7220. If you need help, submit a request through Book-A-Librarian
Patents
A U.S. patent is a property right granted by the Government of the United States of America to an inventor.
Trade Secrets
An inventor is not required to obtain a patent.
Trademarks
Learn what a trademark is and how to search existing trademarks.
Copyright
Copyright protects original works of authorship, including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works
Other Patent and Trademark Resource Centers
The Los Angeles Public Library is one of over eighty U.S. Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (formerly Patent and Trademark Depository Libraries) located throughout the United States. These libraries assist the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in disseminating patent and trademark information. Other Patent Resource Centers in California are: