The Challenging State of University Campus and Library Open Access Policies

INTRODUCTION This research explores institutional and library open access policies at Carnegie Classification Doctoral Universities:Very High Research (R1) and High Research (R2) in the United States. METHODS This mixed methods study surveyed R1 and R2 universities and colleges to gather information about whether they have a formal Open Access (OA) Policy or Statement applying to the entire campus, and/or one that specifically applies to the institution's Library. An anonymous survey was followed up by interviews with a set of volunteer participants. RESULTS & DISCUSSION Variation in campus culture and governance structure meant the path from creation to adoption to implementation of a campus and/or library OA policy was similarly varied. The research reveals librarians’ motivations for and contributions to advancement of OA on their campuses, and sometimes also within their libraries.CONCLUSION: Many of the rationales driving adoption of campus OA policies similarly drive adoption of library-specific OA policies. Those surveyed whose institutions did have library-based OA policies referenced both alignment with institutional mission and values and the importance of leading by example.