The Wyoming State Library (WSL) became a PTRC in 2005. I am the sole staff member within the PTRC, and additionally manage the Federal Depository Library Program here at WSL. We are the only PTRC in the state and consequently, serve the entire population of Wyoming. Our state population is approximately 544,000. As a consequence, the majority of my service is distance (phone and email) versus one-on-one interactions here at WSL.
Our PTRC website includes our service information, a link to our Wyoming Inventors Database (WID), helpful links to the USPTO, and a link to USPTO Intellectual Property Training video podcasts. I update the WID monthly and will be conducting an online webinar in 2013 on searching the WID for Wyoming librarians.
In addition to my work with independent inventors and entrepreneurs, I also regularly contribute to the Wyoming Entrepreneur Small Business Development Center blog on Intellectual Property issues, most recently on changes brought by the America Invents Act.
I speak annually at Wyoming Senator Enzi’s Spring Inventors Conference. This conference is hosted by Senator Enzi and brings information about the patent process and procurement opportunities to Wyoming inventors and entrepreneurs. The focus of my presentation is basic patent/trademark searching and services offered by the WSL PTRC. This conference is extremely well attended and is held in a different location around the state each year.
I look forward to serving the people of Wyoming in this capacity for many years!