Hayden Says CO 95% Complete on IT Modernization Recommendations

The Copyright Office is 95 percent complete with GAO 2015 IT modernization recommendations, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden told the Senate Intellectual Property Subcommittee Tuesday. Copyright Office Director Karyn Temple, who leaves the CO after eight years for the Motion Picture Association (see personals section, Dec. 10), didn’t testify. Hayden detailed IT initiatives as the CO looks to reach 100 percent “very soon.” The online recordation system will allow users to record information on copyright ownership using a digital platform. The office is launching a new public records system to allow the public to search all copyright records. She said a limited recording pilot is expected in spring 2020, a proof of concept for the public records system in late 2020 and a next-generation registration system is expected to be in “full-scale” development later that year. Congress’ initial investment in copyright modernization was about $12 million for five years, and the CO is entering year two. Monday, Chairman Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and ranking member Chris Coons, D-Del., issued a CO modernization bill draft based on subcommittee roundtables (see 1907300069). Key conclusions from the roundtables, Tillis said, are the need for improved communication and transparency for those who use the copyright system daily. It’s essential there isn’t another prolonged period without a Register of Copyrights, he added. The office is working to reduce registration pendency times, modernize IT systems and implement the Music Modernization Act, he noted. CO acting Chief Financial Officer Jody Harry testified it could staff up quickly to implement the Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement Act, if passed (see 1910250047), and associated IT needs are “minimal.” Tillis asked about the pros and cons of potentially updating Title 17, through the legislation, to make the CO statutory and essentially align it with the Congressional Research Service at the Patent and Trademark Office. CO centralization and management is analogous to CRS independence and autonomy, Hayden said. Having the ability to interact directly with Congress is a benefit, she said.