LEGAL DEPOSITS
One of the major roles of the National Library of Papua New Guinea is to collect, maintain and disseminate information resources relating to Papua New Guinea, and to preserve the documentary heritage of this country in the PNG Collection for future generations to access.
One of the methods used is through the Legal Deposit of the National Library and Archives Act, 1993. Legal Deposit is compulsory under this act.
What is Legal Deposit?
Legal Deposit is a statutory provision which requires publishers (and some others) to deposit copies of their publications with a designated agency in their country of publication.
Is Legal Deposit required in Papua New Guinea?
Yes. Legal deposit became a legal requirement in Papua New Guinea with the passing of the National Library and Archives Act 1993.
Who is the ‘Designated Agency’ for Legal Deposit?
The National Library is currently the sole agency designated to receive publications deposited under the legal deposit provisions.
What must be deposited with the National Library?
As a general rule, the requirement is that 2 copies of any publication must be deposited with the National Library, prior to their public release and at the expense of the depositor.
Does the National Library have to claim publications required for Legal Deposit?
No. The obligation for ensuring deposit of publications with the National Library rests with the depositor.
What is a “Publication” for the purpose of Legal Deposit?
A “publication” means library material and other record or sample of culture reproduced in any medium, by any process, for public distribution, lease or sale, for example books, newspapers, videos, cassettes and CDs.
Does the number of copies published affect the requirement for Legal Deposit?
No. The quantity of copies produced has no bearing on the requirement for legal deposit.