Open Access Journals refreshed by Utrecht University Library

Utrecht University Library Open Access Journals (or: Uopen Journals) presents 14 refreshed open access journals.

Academic journals that publish their articles in Open Access are creating a free-to-use knowledge source for every person interested. This online dissemination of scientific publications also stimulates worldwide progress, as opposed to limiting paywalls and subscriptions. However, when publishing in Open Access, journals have to implement essential alterations in their business model, marketing activities and editorial processes. Researchers and editorial boards affiliated to Utrecht University can turn to the university library for support in these activities.

Team Publishing of the Utrecht University Library is currently supporting 14 Open Access journals using an incubatormodel to enhance the ‘startup’ journals. As Utrecht University Library Open Access Journals (or Uopen Journals) the team helps the editorial boards with the publishing process and defining their place in the Open Access era. Moreover, this service anticipates on the OA policy of the Dutch government that demands all scientific publications from Dutch researchers to be freely accessible in 2024.

A big step in the development process of the 14 ‘Uopen Journals’ was the transfer to brand-new OJS driven websites. In collaboration with the London based Ubiquity Press, we have managed to not only visually upgrade the journals, but also to add several new features that are reinforcing the Open Access model. Editors, authors and readers can now benefit from the following options:

• Long-term findability of content (DOI's & CLOCKSS);
• Social media integrations (improved share- & visibility);
• Alternative (article level) quality measurements (besides citations & impact factors);
• ORCID ID plugin and simplified five-step-submission (for authors);
• An attractive and accessible website and so much more!

Read more about the profiles of the14  Uopen Journals and have a look at their new websites!