Promoting Open Access: Strategies for Engaging Faculty Across Departments as a Liaison Librarian

Abstract

As the push for Open Access (OA) gains momentum, libraries play a pivotal role in facilitating equitable access to scholarly research. The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) Libraries, supports OA through a number of tools and initiatives including transformative agreements, publishing grants, an institutional repository, and advocacy. As a liaison librarian, it is my job to promote OA resources, to the departments I serve. This poster explores the multifaceted approach I’ve developed to do this. Adapting outreach methods to resonate with each specific department is crucial. Educating faculty on the basics of OA, addressing individual misconceptions, and collaborating with the Open Scholarship department are foundational steps. Engaging faculty through tailored seminars and personalized consultations amplifies the impact of OA initiatives. Moreover, customizing tools for specific departments and offering ongoing support through reference services enhance accessibility. Despite time constraints, faculty exhibit genuine interest in OA, emphasizing the significance of tailored engagement strategies. By meeting faculty where they are and fostering discussions within their cohorts, liaison librarians can effectively champion the principles of OA and advance scholarly communication practices.