Publishers’ Licensing Services (PLS) has announced the line-up for its highly anticipated PLS Conference 2024. Set to be held on July 4th at the prestigious 1 Wimpole Street in London, this day-long event promises to be an insightful exploration of key topics shaping the publishing industry today.
Leading the line-up is Richard Charkin, esteemed former president of the International Publishers Association and the UK Publishers Association, and former executive director of Bloomsbury Publishing. In his keynote speech, Richard will draw upon his vast experience in the publishing realm to reflect on the industry's evolution over the past five decades, offering invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Also, in a change from last year’s PLS conference, the four major UK publishing trade associations who own and direct PLS will be providing sessions on various topics, including artificial intelligence, the UK specialist media sector, and copyright enforcement.
The morning sessions will feature expert introductions and practical advice on collective licensing, rights management, and permissions—key pillars of PLS' work. Simultaneously, PLS’ licensing partners, including the Copyright Licensing Agency and NLA media access, will provide updates on their licensing initiatives and enforcement efforts.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Access to Research, PLS’ initiative providing free access to academic content in UK public libraries.
In the afternoon, PLS' trade association members will lead separate sessions, delving into topics such as harnessing AI for independent publishers, exploring the specialist media sector, and navigating global copyright issues in the age of AI.
Panel discussions will round off the afternoon, covering a range of pertinent themes, including the benefits and practicalities of direct and collective licensing of AI, the future of selling rights, and the implications of upcoming political changes on copyright and AI.
With such a diverse and engaging line-up of speakers and topics, the PLS Conference 2024 promises to be a must-attend event for professionals across the publishing industry. Stay tuned for further updates and announcements as the conference date approaches.
PLS Conference is free and attendees can register online now.
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