PTRC Basic Resources

General Description

To be designated as a Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC), a library must meet specific requirements and agree to fulfill certain obligations as outlined in the brochure Notes on Becoming a Patent and Trademark Resource Center. A PTRC must provide public accessibility to products and services, offer patent and trademark training as well as provide reference assistance and outreach to the public. The intellectual property resources of some libraries significantly exceed the core requirements. All libraries have access to U.S. patents since 1790. To visit your nearest PTRC, consult the Patent and Trademark Resource Centers Map. Due to variations in the hours of service to the public anyone contemplating the use of a particular patent and trademark resource center is advised to contact that library.

Printed and Electronic Resources

All PTRCs provide access to a core collection. Other resources available via the USPTO Website (unless indicated) include the following:

Patents

Trademarks

General