From patchwork to network--Patent information dissemination in the United Kingdom

David C. Newton

World Patent Information, 1990, vol. 12, issue 1, 15-19

Abstract: The article reviews the history of the development of the Patent Information Network in the U.K. Free distribution of patent specifications and other patent publications to libraries, Mechanics Institute and learned societies was begun by the Patent Office in 1854 and the service was greatly improved by the distribution of abridgments of British patent specifications starting in 1883. After the formation of the British Library in 1974 it took over the distribution of patent literature to public libraries, and in 1980 established the Patents Information Network (PIN) comprising the Science Reference Library as the hub and 26 provincial public libraries. This system was reviewed in 1985-1987, resulting in the elimination of seven smaller libraries from the network and the strengthening of the remaining smaller collections.

Date: 1990
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