Closed access

Closed access refers to a publishing model where access to scholarly materials, such as journal articles, conference papers, and research findings, is restricted to individuals or institutions that pay for access, typically through subscriptions or one-time access fees. This model contrasts with open access, where scholarly works are made freely available to anyone with an internet connection.

Overview

Closed access is the traditional model of academic publishing. Publishers of closed access journals require readers to pay for access to the articles or rely on institutional subscriptions, often provided by academic libraries. This model has been the subject of criticism, particularly regarding the barriers it creates to accessing scientific knowledge. Critics argue that it limits the dissemination of research findings, slows scientific progress, and exacerbates inequalities in access to knowledge.

History

The closed access model has its roots in the print publishing era, where physical distribution of journals and books incurred significant costs. Publishers charged subscriptions to cover these costs and generate profits. With the advent of the internet and digital distribution, the costs associated with publishing have decreased, but many publishers have maintained the closed access model.

Impact

The closed access model has several implications for researchers, institutions, and the public. For researchers, gaining access to the latest studies can be expensive, especially for those affiliated with smaller institutions that cannot afford extensive journal subscriptions. This can hinder their ability to stay abreast of developments in their field. For the public and professionals outside academia, closed access limits the availability of scientific knowledge, which can impact informed decision-making and public policy.

Alternatives

In response to the limitations of the closed access model, the open access movement has gained momentum. Open access publishing allows for the free distribution of research outputs, facilitating wider dissemination and access. There are various models of open access, including "gold" open access, where articles are immediately available upon publication, and "green" open access, where authors archive a version of their work in a public repository.

See Also

• Academic publishing
• Open access (publishing)
• Scholarly communication
• Copyright in academic publishing