Information Law and Practice

Guide to information law covering copyright, intellectual property law, patents, ownership rights in relation to artistic and musical works and the problems posed by new technologies. Libel, obscenity and racial incitement are set in their legal context.

---

Information is being seen more and more as a commercially marketable commodity. Ideals of freedom of information can conflict with ownership rights in intellectual property. It is essential for workers in the information field, librarians or information scientists, communications, media or information technology specialists to be familiar with the law as it relates to their work. This is not a book for the legal specialist but a guide to information law. Whilst the main emphasis is on copyright, other areas of intellectual property, particularly patents, are outlined. Ownership rights in literary, artistic and musical works, and in broadcasts, are discussed and particular attention is paid to the problems posed by new technologies. Pitfalls for the information provider such as libel, obscenity and racial incitement are set in their legal context. Case studies and news items are cited within the the text.