In this presentation, I will discuss the proactive steps taken by Elizabeth City State University's academic library to uphold our commitment to open access and amidst the phasing out of our current digital platform. While I will tell the journey of establishing the very first open access repository on our campus, the conversation will center on the exploration for robust alternative platforms and the pursuit of regional collaboration with other university libraries to ensure continuous access to diverse scholarly materials. A focused literature review will be conducted to pinpoint the gaps in existing research about open access dynamics within HBCU libraries. I will recount personal experiences from a five-year tenure managing an open access repository, with special attention to the inclusion and dissemination of non-traditional content such as music, videos, and multimedia. The discussion highlights the impact on scholarly communications and the advancement of research transparency within communities often left at the margins and underrepresented communities. The analysis accentuates the significant role that the open access repositories serve in broadening the scope of research visibility and its integration into the broader global academic discourse.
Moreover, the presentation will incorporate a visual narrative, displaying profile images, standout items from the digital collections, and compelling statistics that chronicle the growth and resonance of the open access repository I have managed for the past five years. These visual elements aim to not only provide concrete evidence of progress but also to humanize the data, presenting the people and stories behind the numbers.
The presentation will emphasize the importance of open access in enhancing scholarly communication and promoting research transparency, especially among groups that have historically been marginalized and underrepresented in academic discourse. This focus aims to contribute to a more diverse and equitable academic future, aligning with broader global educational and research objectives.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the Challenges and Solutions in Enhancing Open Access: Participants will gain an understanding of the challenges faced by an HBCU institution in promoting open access and digital repository utilization. They will also learn about specific strategies and solutions employed to overcome these challenges.
Recognize the Role of Leadership and Team Building: Attendees will recognize the significance of leadership and team building in successfully implementing scholarly communications services. They will learn how effective leadership and collaboration can drive initiatives related to open access and digital repositories.
Identify Practical Implementation Actions: Participants will identify actionable steps within an implementation plan, including creating educational resources, conducting faculty feedback surveys, initiating collaboration efforts, and implementing promotional strategies. They will be equipped with practical ideas to apply in their own institutions or roles.
Measure Progress towards the Goal: Attendees will understand how to measure progress towards fostering a culture of open access and research dissemination.
Apply Lessons Learned: Participants will be able to apply the lessons learned from ECSU's experience to their own institutions or organizations. They will leave with actionable insights to enhance open access and digital repository utilization in their respective contexts.
