We are calling on signatories from across the Knowledge Equity Network to support us in gathering perspectives to contribute towards an international research project on Open Access for Longform Publication, which has been commissioned by KEN and the University of Leeds Library.
The research explores the potential impact on equity across the global Higher Education sector, and examines sector readiness for a move towards Open Access monograph publishing. Our intention is that the final report will be openly published and shared across the Knowledge Equity Network in early 2026.
The project is now underway and involves a core cohort of partners, including Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines), the University of Auckland (New Zealand), Copim (UK), Universität Hamburg (Germany), Universidad Nacional del Sur (Argentina), the University of Nairobi (Kenya), the University of Pretoria (South Africa), the University of Salford (UK), Singapore Management University (Singapore), Université de Sousse (Tunisia), VU Amsterdam (Netherlands), and White Rose University Press (UK).
We are seeking a broad range of perspectives from across these institutions and countries through a series of focus groups. However, we also welcome perspectives from colleagues based in institutions and organisations not included on this list to take part in the focus groups.
To support this work, our colleagues at Information Power have convened a series of one-hour focus groups across different time zones, each tailored to those working in a specific area of knowledge production related to Open Access publishing.
Arts, Humanities, and Social Science (AHSS) Researchers
Wednesday 12th November – 5am & 11am UTC
We invite researchers at any career stages from disciplines where books are the primary output. The group will be asked to discuss reward structures, publishing norms, and incentives.
Register to attend here.
Equity and Inclusion Experts
Wednesday 19th November – 5am & 11am UTC
In this focus group we seek to explore disparities across institutions, regions, and disciplines and ways to make open access for longform more equitable. The group will be asked to identify equity barriers and discuss ways to overcome them. We are open-minded about what sort of background your expert will have. This might be an academic with relevant expertise or a scholarly communications librarian, for example.
Register to attend here.
Librarians
Wednesday 26th November – 5am & 11am UTC
Libraries around the world are key champions for the transition to equitable and sustainable OA, and understanding their visions and perceived challenges and opportunities is vital.
Register to attend here.
Publishers
Wednesday 3rd December – 5am & 11am UTC
In this focus group we seek representatives with publishing experience. This might include someone from your university or library press,, or any other publisher in your country or region. The group will be asked to discuss business and pricing models, and challenges for workflows, scaling up, and sustainability.
Register to attend here.
Funders and Policy Makers
Wednesday 10th December – 5am & 11am UTC
Engaging funders and policy-makers is crucial to effect change. We would like you to invite a representative from your country’s relevant Ministry or Research Funding body to participate in this focus group. Thank you kindly for reaching out to these important colleagues.
Register to attend here.
Thank you for your support in this matter and please do share this information with colleagues who may also be interested in contributing to this.
If you have any questions in relation to this, please contact us here.