What Factors Influence Subject Librarians’ Promotion of Open Access Scholarly Resources?

Abstract

Research Problem: In the past twenty years, open access has grown as a movement in the dissemination of, and access to, academic research. This has been in the context of rising subscription costs and constraints in academic library budgets. It is also seen as a more ethical way to broaden access to information. Yet, there is still much ambiguity and misunderstanding around the topic. This study aims to explore the factors influencing New Zealand subject/liaison librarian decisions to promote open access scholarly resources to library clients.

Methodology: A quantitative survey was used to collect data. The target population was those who identified themselves as subject/ liaison librarians at a New Zealand university library. The questionnaire included checklist questions, Likert scales and opportunities for comments. Results were coded and descriptive statistics and correlations calculated.

Results: Fifty usable surveys were completed. Respondents were all aware of open access, although awareness of the different types was not strong. Over half of respondents had not had formal open access training at work. While most librarians supported open access, it was evident that there was still a lot of caution around it. Most respondents agreed that it was in the scope of their role to promote open access and these librarians were more likely to promote or discuss open access with clients. The requirements for scholarly impact and prestige were recognised as barriers for scholarly staff to publish open access however generally librarians who support open access still promoted it to academic staff.

Implications: The results show much ambiguity about open access types and concepts. A key recommendation is for academic libraries to address the training of librarians in open access. Few respondents had had formal open access training at work yet the results show that understanding open access underpins its frequent promotion.