Patent and Trademark Resource Center Libraries (PTRCs)

See the PTRC Library Directory for a state-by-state listing of PTRC Libraries.

  • The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has specially designated over 80 libraries throughout the U.S. as Patent and Trademark Resource Center Libraries (PTRC).
  • PTRC Libraries are open to the public and provide specialized services for people seeking patent and trademark information. If you have a PTRC Library close to you, a visit to it may save you hours of searching.
  • PTRC Libraries receive and make available to users:
    -Utility, Design, Plant and Reissue Patents
    -     Reexamination Certificates
    -     Statutory Invention Registrations (SIRs)
    -Post-issue patent status information
    -The Official Gazette of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (both patent and trademark sections)
    -All PTO search tools, indices and directories
  • PTRC Libraries are required to have at least 20 years of U.S. Patents available for the public; many PTRC Libraries have much more extensive collections of patents. They also can provide assistance in accessing and using web based products available from the USPTO.
For more information about the PTRC Program and Libraries:

Description of the PTRC program from the USPTO web site: Patent and Trademark Resource Centers/a>

Tutorial: How to Conduct a Preliminary U.S. Patent Search: A Step-by-Step Strategy.

Directory of PTRC Libraries PTRC Library Directory for a state-by-state listing of PTRC Libraries.

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