Re: Open Access & the changing roles in libraries: an example

[Brian Simboli <brs4@lehigh.edu>]

Michael, Use of the HSDL to experiment with provision of an overlay
ejournal along traditional peer review lines will advance the
affordability and access problems immensely. A few working exemplars are
needed out there.  The can either be gold or low-cost. What is key here is
academic ownership. Brian Simboli

Michael Leach wrote:

> Dear Colleagues,
>
> As a follow-up on my earlier email, let me speak further to the issue of
> the changing roles of libraries in an era of open access with one
> example.
>
> The Harvard Science Libraries are in the pilot-project/test phase of
> their Dspace-based institutional repository, called the Harvard Sciences
> Digital Library (HSDL).  Unlike many other implementations of Dspace,
> the HSDL has a library-centered structure for its communities and
> collections.  What this means, in essence, is that the libraries are
> actively collecting and supporting (through metadata creation,
> copyright/digital rights management support, object uploading, etc.) the
> input of materials into our repository.  We see this support as
> essential for building the repository and, in the greater picture,
> supporting the OA movement.
>
> Naturally, such a library-centered structure requires resources--human,
> IT, fiscal, etc.--for successful operation.  My fellow Harvard
> colleagues and I are examining work flow, work load, retraining, etc. on
> numerous levels in each of our libraries, so we can shift resources to
> support this new project.
>
> While some changes were obvious (e.g. a shifting of fiscal resources
> from binding to the HSDL, since we buy fewer serial titles each year,
> and in some instances, are going e-only), other changes are more
> challenging (such as restructuring personnel, or professional
> development to learn new skills).
>
> It is in light of these changes and challenges that I am reaching out to
> our community--to learn best practices, determine in what directions
> others are headed, what areas need further study and evaluation, etc.  
> I feel there is much to be gained from communicating and collaborating.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Michael R. Leach
> Harvard University
> leach@eps.harvard.edu or mrleach@fas.harvard.edu