It is the policy of the Special Libraries Association to protect its intellectual property.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the Association’s intellectual property is protected. The intent of the Association is to provide for electronic commerce while protecting the rights of the Association and its members. The law is currently lagging behind technology which poses many challenges. Presenting and exchanging information in digital formats pose increased risks in that the owner’s and user’s rights can be violated. It also poses a greater concern to enforcement as digital information makes copying and distortions much easier.

A formal Intellectual Property Review process shall be established within SLA to insure that: 1) the information policy is implemented; 2) unauthorized copying of software or other protected material does not occur; 3) assignments are obtained and applications are filed for copyrighted materials; 4) legal counsel is informed when current copyrighted and trademarked materials/designs are updated; 5) new product/service names do not infringe any other party’s mark (this is particularly important with regard to additional marks and/or logos used by the units); 6) applications are filed for new trademarks; 7) proper use is made of copyright and trademark designations; and 8) assist the staff and members in their monitoring capacity. The Board of Directors will periodically discuss developments which may require action.

The Assistant Executive Director for Programs & Development is responsible for maintaining the information policy and facilitating the Intellectual Property Review process.

Approved: 1996