Because open access (OA) is a newer scholarship model and offered in several varieties, it is sometimes misunderstood.
It’s important to know that just like traditional subscription-based journal publishing, reputable OA publishers comply with well-established peer-review processes, maintain rigorous publishing standards, and have a high standing in most fields.
See some of the myths about OA journals and note the realities that dispel those myths:
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
|
“OA journals are low quality or not peer-reviewed.” |
Open Access is a model of distribution — not a measure of quality. Many OA journals have rigorous peer review and editorial standards. Some are among the most cited in their fields (e.g., PLOS ONE, eLife, and more). |
|
“If I publish OA, no one will take my work seriously.” |
Open Access increases visibility and citations, especially for global scholars or those with interdisciplinary audiences. It elevates your work in terms of online discoverability and doesn’t prevent you from being indexed in critical academic databases either. You may even get access to metrics that can show your impact! |
|
“OA publishing always costs money.” |
Not true — Green and Diamond OA are free options for authors. Even Gold OA journals may waive or reduce APCs in some scenarios if national grants are involved. Need an APC waived? Just try asking! Also, many publishers offer hybrid journals which always offer a no-cost route to publication. |
|
“OA means I give up my rights.” |
Quite the opposite — OA often uses Creative Commons licenses, which let you retain rights and choose how others use your work. |
|
“I can’t publish in a prestigious journal if I want Open Access.” |
Many major, reputable publishers offer OA in highly ranked titles. Also, depositing your manuscript in a disciplinary or institutional repository allows you to achieve Green OA compliance – getting your work out there to the public – and doesn’t prevent you from working with preferred journals. |
The library offers grant opportunities for instructors to support the creation of open educational resources.
Explore Grants →