Orphan Works (works in copyright where rights holders are unknown or cannot be traced) present substantial issues in terms of digitisation and publication of copyright works. Across UK heritage institutions, there will be hundreds of millions of orphan works, including photographs, letters, prints, films, sound recordings, plays, broadcasts and drawings. This workshop will review the extent of the issue, reasons for orphan works and the options for how they can be managed and used. Participants will be encouraged to plan their own next-step strategies for the management of orphan works during the course.  

This half-day intermediate course will benefit those wanting to expand their knowledge of orphan works management and embed best practice in their organisation. It will be of particular benefit to professionals working in museums, libraries and archives. 

Learning Objectives:

• Analyse what constitutes orphan works and the different types that exist.
• Discuss the management of rights and risks following Brexit.
• Examine possible solutions to orphan works and what constitutes a reasonable search.
• Consider and plan practical strategies manage your orphan works.
• Determine how to manage risks within the context of orphan works.
• Review the EVA approach to take down and what to do if a rights holder comes forward.
• Embed learning into work context.

What’s included?

• Updated factsheets and handouts prior to the sessions.
• Plenty of opportunities to ask questions during the sessions.
• Links to authoritative copyright resources during the sessions.
• A copy of the PPT slides after the session attended.