Orphan Works Basics and Best Practices

“Orphan works” are works that are protected by copyright but the identity or whereabouts of the rights holder are not known. This program explores this emerging issue which has increased significantly in visibility in recent years. The first part covers the basics of orphan works: what orphan works are, how they become “orphaned,” and why they present a problem to museums, galleries, and archives that want to make use of them. The second part examines the issue by describing legislative efforts to address orphan works usage and exploring possible solutions. The third part describes best practices with regard to orphan works usage.

Tackling Collections Backlogs for Small Museums

Colleagues with a range of experience working in and with small museums discuss issues related to tackling collections backlogs, including ways to approach a collections backlog, prioritize tasks and implement practical solutions. Presenters offer suggestions for immediate, intermediate, and longer-range solutions and action steps and discuss how tackling a collections backlog fits within an overall collections management strategy.