Libraries are key to the success of the Marrakesh Treaty for two main reasons. Throughout the world, libraries have a long history serving people with print disabilities, and only blind people’s organizations, libraries and other so-called “authorized entities” can send accessible format copies to other countries. Because the treaty provides countries with important policy options, librarians need to be involved in the development of implementing national legislation to ensure the maximum possible benefit, and to effectively meet the objective of the treaty - to end the book famine for print disabled people.

The EIFL guide - the first of its kind - is in two parts. Part One is a straightforward introduction to the treaty, its key provisions, and the role of libraries in contributing to the treaty’s objectives. Part Two provides a practical interpretation of the major technical provisions, with recommendations, in line with public interest goals of enabling access to knowledge.

This guide, published in October 2015, is a redesigned version of the EIFL guide to the Marrakesh Treaty first published in December 2014.

To download a text only version of the Guide (rtf format), click here.