Linda Hall Library is one of over 80 libraries in the United States that participate in the
Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) Program. The PTRC program is administered by the
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Through the PTRC Program, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office provides participating libraries access to patent and trademark information and resources, including tools the general public can use to conduct self-directed and preliminary patent and/or trademark searching.
Conducting intellectual property research can be a complicated and time-consuming process. The completeness or accuracy of a search rests entirely on the individual doing the search. The U.S. PTO recommends that individuals consult an intellectual property attorney for legal advice regarding patent and trademark processes; the Office maintains a
register of practitioners who are eligible to represent others before the PTO in patent matters.
To speak with a librarian for further information, please call 816.363.4600 or 800.662.1545, then choose option 2 for the Reference Department, or send an e-mail to
reference@lindahall.org. Please know that the librarians can provide general instruction in the use of the search tools provided by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, but
cannot conduct searches for patrons nor provide legal advice.
