No Open Access without Open Infrastructure
No Open Access without Open Infrastructure https://opusproject.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/GXqimSAWQAAsUFD-2-1024x585.jpeg 1024 585 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project https://opusproject.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/GXqimSAWQAAsUFD-2-1024x585.jpegThe Copim Open Book Futures project, running from 2023 to 2026, is a significant initiative aimed at creating a fully open and bibliodiverse ecosystem for open access (OA) books. Funded by Arcadia and the Research England Development Fund, the project emphasizes values such as trust, transparency, interconnectivity, openness, equity, and bibliodiversity. With 12 publisher and service provider members and 79 supporting libraries, the project has raised over €800,000 to date and plans to award more than €100,000 in small grants by 2026.
Objectives and Support for Diamond Open Access
The project strongly advocates for Diamond open access, which is characterized by its commitment to providing free access to both readers and authors without any associated fees. This model is particularly appealing as it aligns with principles of equity and social justice in scholarly publishing. The Open Book Collective (OBC), part of this initiative, serves as a charity enabling libraries to financially support OA book publishers and service providers. This community-driven approach not only enhances accessibility but also fosters a diverse range of scholarly works.
Innovative Tools and Infrastructure
Key components of the project include the development of an open metadata management platform and new tools designed to improve OA ebook accessibility. Additionally, it aims to establish archiving and preservation networks to ensure the longevity of published works. Notably, the project is also focused on aligning experimental publishing infrastructures with OA workflows, thus promoting innovative practices in scholarly communication.
Community Engagement and Funding Models
The Copim initiative emphasizes collaboration among various stakeholders in the academic community. Contributors from institutions like Coventry University and Loughborough University are involved in discussions about building community-led infrastructures for OA book publishing. The project highlights lessons learned from these experiences, advocating for sustainable funding models that do not rely solely on author fees.
Expanding Access and Bibliodiversity
The initiative’s commitment to bibliodiversity is crucial in ensuring that a wide range of voices and perspectives are represented in academic literature. By supporting experimental scholarship through pilot projects and collaborations with libraries across Europe, North America, and the Middle East, the Copim Open Book Futures project seeks to broaden the scope of accessible knowledge.
Next Steps
The Copim Open Book Futures project represents a transformative step towards a more equitable scholarly publishing landscape. By championing Diamond open access and fostering community engagement, it aims to create an inclusive ecosystem that supports diverse voices in academia. This approach not only enhances access to knowledge but also ensures that scholarly works can be more widely disseminated and preserved for future generations.
Initiatives like this are essential for addressing the inequities present in traditional publishing models. By prioritizing community-driven efforts and innovative funding strategies, we can pave the way for a more inclusive academic environment that values diverse perspectives and equitable access to information.
