Anne of Intellectual Property

It feels like I have been following the development of the Anne of Green Gables brand my whole life. The librarian in me can’t believe I didn’t take to reading until my grade 5 teacher introduced me to Anne Shirley and her cohorts Diana Barry and Gilbert Blythe. I read every book in L.M. Montgomery’s series, and then continued on with her other fiction series. I fondly recall a family trip to PEI to visit L.M. Montgomery’s childhood home. Later in life I discovered her adult writings and, as a student of English literature at the University of Guelph, was overjoyed to learn they were the keepers of the L.M. Montgomery Special Collection.

Of course, I followed Sullivan Entertainment’s beloved film series and the ensuing lawsuit. Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe that resulted in the creation of The Anne of Green Gables Licensing Authority.

Now the Canadian Trademark Blog tells us about the new social networking site aimed at girls called Anne’s Diary. According to a CBC report the PEI Ministry of Development is “vigorously” pursuing protection of their trademark; the Province of Prince Edward Island is joint owner of the mark along with L.M. Montgomery’s heirs.

The Anne’s Diary site itself has an emphasis on safety and security, always top of mind for parents. I had a look at the public-facing part of the site, and it looks excellent. An animated modern girl “inspired by the much-loved ‘Anne Of Green Gables’ novels”, (named Anne, with red braids and a best friend named Diana) talks in the opening video about the great site and how she can connect with friends either down the street or across the globe. She is quite charming and engaging, exactly what would have attracted me in grade 5. Parents should have a look under the “About” link from the bottom of the page. There is a whole resource about social networking and security as well as information about the work of L.M. Montgomery.

Incidentally, this year is the 100th anniversary of Anne of Green Gables. It is wonderful to see that Lucy Maud’s characters have been so well-loved for so many years. It will be interesting to see what happens to this latest incarnation.