Open Access Publishing

Open access publishing: What it is and why it is important

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So, why should I care?

According to PLOS. org, OA is important because:

  • Accelerated discovery. With open access, researchers can read and build on the findings of others without restriction.
  • Public enrichment. Much scientific and medical research is paid for with public funds. Open Access allows taxpayers to see the results of their investment.
  • Improved education. Open Access means that teachers and their students have access to the latest research findings throughout the world.

Source: http://www.plos.org/open-access/

But still, why should I care?

Even if you aren't researching information, OA is still important because:

  • authors can publish their work and get their name and voice out into the world.
  • educators have more readily current information to present in their classrooms.
  • libraries are able to provide their patrons with more infromation without having to spend budgets on journals.
  • lastly, the public helps to fund studies with their tax dollars, so wouldn't you like to see what your money has done?