Optimizing Open Access Policy

Abstract

This overview of the current status of Open Access (OA) to peer-reviewed research describes the steps that need to be taken to achieve universal OA. Policy initiatives by universities and funding agencies as well as adaptations by publishers have resulted in some progress toward universal OA, but a significant portion of research remains inaccessible to its would-be users because of subscription barriers. Institutions are forced to support both journal subscriptions and “Gold OA” author publication fees; this is not affordable or sustainable. More and stronger OA mandates will accelerate the provision of universal “Green OA” (author self-archiving) and an eventual transition to affordable, sustainable Gold OA, in which author fees replace institutional subscription fees to cover the remaining essential costs of journal publication. To accelerate progress, more institutions and funders need to adopt effective OA mandates. All universities and funders should require: (1) institutional deposit (2) deposit final draft immediately on acceptance for publication; and urge (but not require): (3) immediate OA, (4) author rights-retention, (5) minimization of allowable embargo length, (6) implementation of the copy-request Button, (7) provision of rich usage and citation metrics, and (8) having the repository deposit of publications be the locus for institutional performance review as well as funding applications and renewals.

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