Protecting your intellectual property by getting a patent or trademark is one of the most important steps an inventor or small business owner can take. Getting started at a Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) can help you navigate the process more efficiently. Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh has been a PTRC since 1902.

While we are unable to offer legal advice or assistance filling out forms or filing, we do offer a variety of resources and trained staff who can help you with the vital step of searching for patents and trademarks online using the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USTPO) website or the databases PubEAST and PubWEST. In addition, we hold a historic print and microfilm collection, as well as current and historic plant patents in print.

For more information and to make an appointment, call 412.622.6114 or email info@carnegielibrary.org.