Unlocking Creativity: World Book Day & Copyright Day Message from Liberia’s Intellectual Property Office Director General

Fellow Liberians,

As we approach the celebration of World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, I am filled with a profound sense of pride in Liberia’s rich literary heritage – as I renew the Liberia Intellectual Property Office’s commitment to addressing the numerous challenges facing our struggling literary industry.

While it is true that digitalization has brought about unprecedented opportunities, it has also wreaked havoc on our struggling literary industry due to the “ease of reproduction,” leading to increased piracy and exploitation at an unprecedented level.

Therefore, as Liberia joins the rest of the world to celebrate World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, I wish to announce that the Liberia Intellectual Property Office is taking decisive action to modernize the country’s copyright registration system, making it more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.

In the coming months, we will be launching an E-Service registration portal as part of our modernization efforts to streamline the registration process of copyright, allowing authors and publishers to file for protection of their works from any part of the country or the world with ease, removing bureaucratic barriers that have hindered copyright registration.

This promise is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative rooted in our belief that every author and publisher deserves to reap the rewards of their labor. It is through intellectual property rights protection that the Liberia Intellectual Property Office can ensure the rebirth of Liberia’s literary industry and foster an environment where creativity can thrive. As a result, my administration remains deeply committed to this task and will do so within our legal authority to make it a reality.

In conclusion, I want to pay homage to the legacy of Bai T. Moore, Wilton Sankawulo, and all other great literary giants whose works have left an indelible mark on Liberia and the world stage. The impacts of their literary works remind me of the words of Nelson Mandela, who famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

As the World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated under the global theme “Read Your Will,” I call on all Liberians to join our quest to rebirth our country’s literary industry by legitimately supporting the industry through buying books. Together, we can build a future where creativity flourishes, the rights of authors and publishers are upheld, and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Liberia continues to inspire and captivate the world.

As you read, know that books are not merely repositories of knowledge; they are catalysts for change, vehicles for expression, and bridges to understanding. They educate, inspire, and unite people. Please do join us on April 23 in celebrating World Book and Copyright Day, designated by UNESCO to honor the invaluable contributions of authors, publishers, and creators to our society. I urge all Liberians to actively support this celebration and make a personal commitment to respect and uphold intellectual property rights. By doing so, we champion creativity, innovation, and our collective pursuit of sustainable development.

Let’s take tangible actions, such as purchasing books from legitimate sources, respecting copyright laws, and advocating for the protection of intellectual property. Together, we can ensure a vibrant creative ecosystem that benefits everyone.

Sincerely,

Hon. Garmai Koboi

Director General

Liberia Intellectual Property Office