Europe is investing heavily in research and innovation, and for good reason. But we have failed to support these interests by clearing the way for the digital transition of libraries, archives, universities and other knowledge institutions that are essential to promoting progress. We need to prioritise reform that focuses on the needs of these institutions. We need a targeted legislative intervention — a Digital Knowledge Act — that enables knowledge institutions to offer the same services online as offline.
In our new publication released today, A Digital Knowledge Act for Europe (available as a PDF file), we provide an overview of the barriers that prevent knowledge institutions from carrying out their public interest mission in the digital environment and present solutions.
The booklet is structured along four actions to empower knowledge institutions in the digital age:
- Protect the Public Domain!
Public sector documents, public speeches and raw materials are essential sources of information, but not always freely accessible to the public. They should clearly be excluded from copyright protection. Legal barriers to use images of cultural heritage that are in the Public Domain need to be removed. - Unlock research!
Scientists often struggle to access and share research. A right to research and an obligation to openly publish publicly funded outputs would go a long way towards unlocking the potential of European research. - Promote digital adaptation!
Refusal to license and unfair licensing terms for digital materials are one of the biggest challenges for libraries and research organisations today. We need an EU‑wide e‑lending right and an obligation to license digital works to knowledge institutions. - Shield institutions from legal risk!
Due to the complex and fragmented state of EU copyright law, many individuals and institutions shy away from research collaborations and other public interest activities. An exemption from liability for damages for those who act in good faith would mitigate this chilling effect.
In each section, we explain the deficiencies of the current legal framework and present legislative solutions to address them, linking to our fully developed policy papers.
Print copies will be available at COMMUNIA events, including at our event today Why Europe needs a Digital Knowledge Act.