The University of Liverpool is proud to announce its membership in the Towards a Recommendation on Open Cultural Heritage (TAROCH) Coalition, a global initiative led by Creative Commons to advance open access to cultural heritage in the public domain.
Cultural heritage has the power to connect people across generations and borders, yet countless historical works remain out of reach due to outdated policies and resource barriers. TAROCH is working to change that, advocating for equitable and sustainable access to out-of-copyright heritage materials.
Backed by a growing network of institutions and organisations worldwide, TAROCH is engaging UNESCO Member States to champion policies that remove barriers, foster collaboration and unlock cultural heritage for all. This global effort aligns with UNESCO’s mission to promote the free flow of knowledge and preserve our shared history.
Through global dialogue and collective action, TAROCH is laying the groundwork for meaningful policy frameworks. By integrating diverse global perspectives and advancing forward-thinking solutions, the coalition is helping navigate the complexities of opening public domain collections with careful attention to ethical, legal and cultural considerations.
Dr Sabine Jacques, Senior Lecturer in Intellectual Property Law at the University of Liverpool and the university's lead on this partnership, said: "Ensuring equitable access to public domain cultural heritage is vital, as it fosters knowledge, creativity and cross-cultural collaboration for generations to come. Participating in international dialogues to establish global standards is a key step toward enabling access, removing barriers and promoting a more inclusive and digitally connected future for cultural heritage worldwide."
By joining TAROCH, the University of Liverpool stands alongside leading organisations and institutions in shaping a future where open access empowers communities, supports cultural diversity and inspires new generations.
To learn more and get involved, visit the TAROCH Coalition website.