September 29, 2022
AAP Statement on the Death and Legacy of Former Register of Copyrights Marybeth Peters
The publishing community is deeply saddened by the loss of former Register of Copyrights Marybeth Peters, who devoted more than four decades to domestic and international copyright law, led the U.S. Copyright Office for a remarkable 16 years, advised numerous Members of Congress on legal and policy questions, including treaty implementation, and encouraged countless copyright careers across government and the private sector.
During her long tenure, Ms. Peters helped to implement both the 1976 Copyright Act and the 1998 Digital Millennium Copyright Act, which together constitute the foundation of our present-day copyright system. She championed numerous, additional improvements—both statutory and regulatory—through rigorous studies and testimony.
We send our sincere condolences to Marybeth’s extended family, friends, and everyone who admired her
Following is the statement of Maria A. Pallante, AAP President and CEO:
“Marybeth was a giant in the field of copyright law and both inspiring and imposing at the helm of the Copyright Office. She was endlessly interested in meeting new people, especially creative people, and had a way of drawing practitioners, including me, into periods of government service. Her achievements—as a distinguished legal expert, public official, and chief executive officer—are unique and significant, and they will serve authors and the global public for generations to come. Likewise, she will long be remembered for her kindness, humility, and joyful sense of humor. I was privileged to work for her twice and honored to call her a close friend.”
An obituary can be found here.