How can patent examiners access borrowed publications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Patent examiners can access borrowed publications through the Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC) Services, specifically through interlibrary loans. The MPEP 901.06(b) directs readers to “See MPEP § 901.06(a) , STIC Services – Interlibrary Loans.” This suggests that examiners should refer to MPEP 901.06(a) for detailed information on how to request and access publications that are not permanently available in the USPTO’s collection. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Scientific and Technical Information Center Database Coverage MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Examiners Can Submit Prior Art Search Requests MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Interlibrary Loan Requirement for Borrowed Publications MPEP 901.06(b) Print Materials Available in Main STIC MPEP 901.06(a) Examiners Can Use Patent Examiner’s Toolkit Or STIC NPL Website To Access Catalog MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Full Text Available in PDF Formats MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Examiners Can Use In-House ABSS for Sequence Searches MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Examiners Can Perform Foreign Patent Searches After Training MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Examiners Can Use Oral Translations from STIC MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Examiners Can Request Translations From STIC MPEP 901.06(a) Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the relationship between MPEP 901.06(b) and MPEP 901.06(a)? Why are borrowed publications important in patent examination? What are the foreign patent document services provided by STIC? What is the importance of STIC resources in determining patentability? How can patent examiners access STIC&#8217;s electronic resources?