Learn About the Patent and Trademark Process at Central Library

The Indianapolis Public Library invites the public to learn more about the patent and trademark process for inventors and small businesses at "Demystifying Patents and Trademarks." The event will be held on Thursday, May 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at Central Library. The Indiana District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Indianapolis Bar Association, and the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law's IP Clinic are participating in this event. Registration via Eventbrite is required.

“The Library is designated as a Patent & Trademark Resource Center, and we look to provide information that informs people about the patent and trademark processes,” said Ryan Donnelly, public services librarian at Central Library. “The idea for this program came as an extension of this mission to help inventors and small businesses, and we hope the attendees of the program become more confident in understanding how to obtain a patent or trademark.”

"Demystifying Patents and Trademarks" will provide insights into the patent and trademark process, featuring experts from the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO). The event will take place in the Riley Room at Central Library.

Presentations will include:

• The Indiana District Office of the SBA will share how the SBA can assist small businesses. This presentation will take place at 10:30 a.m. during the introductory portion of the program.
• Demystifying Trademarks: Learn about trademarks, federal trademark registrations, and the registration process. This presentation will take place at 10:45 a.m.
• Demystifying the Patent Process: Gain insights into the patent journey and explore patentability requirements. Understand the choice between provisional and nonprovisional applications. This presentation will take place at 1:15 p.m.
• Panel on Developing and Protecting Your Intellectual Property: Engage in a dynamic discussion with panelists from the USPTO and The Indianapolis Public Library. This presentation will take place at 2:15 p.m.

The program will also feature a Lunch and Networking Session from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lunch and participate in networking opportunities.

Attendees may register for part of the day or the entire program. Please note that the event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. The Library extends gratitude to the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper for their efforts in promoting the patent and trademark resources available from The Library and the USPTO.