Stellenbosch University’s Library and Information Service is committed to advancing open science by implementing innovative services that support researchers, academics, and all stakeholders in the scholarly publishing process. Over the years, the Library has implemented several initiatives to promote open science/access. These include the celebration of the  International Open Access Week, an annual event where open access advocates share innovative ideas about developments in the open science/access sphere.

This year the Library’s International Open Access Week event will be celebrated in October. It will consist of a panel discussion of 3 researchers which will help increase awareness about the advantages of open science/access. Other SU open access initiatives include SunScholar, which is Stellenbosch University’s institutional repository that supports openness and dissemination of scholarly publication to wider audience with very limited access restrictions. This repository consists of theses and dissertations, journal papers, conference papers and many other types of research outputs. Another repository, SUNDigital Collections showcases digital content from the Library and Information Service’s unique digital and cultural heritage collections, while SUNScholarData is used for the registration, archival storage, sharing and dissemination of research data produced or collected about research conducted under the auspices of Stellenbosch University. The Stellenbosch University is also part of the South African National Library and Information Consortium (SANLiC), which signed “Read and Publish” (transformational) agreements with publishers. These agreements aim to open opportunities for SU researchers to publish open access without paying article processing charges (APCs). So far, 16 publishers allow SU researchers to publish in all hybrid journals at no APCs and in selected fully open access journals, at a discount. We continue to encourage researchers to educate themselves about the different open access options.  Open access increases the visibility and impact of research published at SU. However, we understand that new models of publishing come with their challenges. Not every researcher understands the role and benefits of OA. As such, the Library has been involved in various innovative initiatives that seek to introduce the open access publishing model to researchers.

One such innovation is the recently launched #BeOpenAccessSmart webinar series which commenced with an inaugural webinar on 17 September 2024. With the introduction of the webinar series, the library aims to consolidate its role as one of the foremost critical thought leaders in the open science arena. The webinar will strengthen the Library’s advocacy role for open science and ensure that scholars understand its benefits. Open Science initiatives typically seek to democratically provide knowledge, promote collaboration, and support the advancement of scientific innovation without any financial and access hindrances.

Ms Ellen Tise, the Senior Director of the Library, officially launched the #BeOpenAccessSmart webinar series and both internal and external attendees had the opportunity to learn more about open access/science. Conducted by Mr Thanos Giannakopoulos, from the United Nations Dag Hammarskjöld Library, the title of the inaugural presentation was “(G)AI, Open Access, and Sustainable Development: The Evolving Role of Libraries in a Transforming World.” The focus was on the intersection of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), open access (OA), and sustainable development. Among other themes, the webinar explored the evolving role of libraries in promoting AI literacy, safeguarding data privacy, elevating the need to mitigate bias, and fostering OA for all. Mr Giannakopoulos stipulated that libraries play a critical role in mitigating misinformation and raising awareness about challenges like privacy, bias, and the environmental impact of generative AI in relation to sustainable human development. He further alluded that libraries should ensure that AI tools are accessible globally, particularly for underdeveloped regions. He warned that generative AI poses risks associated with misuse and abuse of personal data, among other concerns. It is the role of libraries, working with different stakeholders, to ensure responsible AI use. These libraries must advocate for sustainable and ethical AI practices aligned with sustainable development goals.

Meanwhile 460 registrations from about 23 countries were received for the webinar of which at least 180 people attended. Attendees alluded that Mr Thanos’ presentation greatly enriched their understanding of how these dynamic fields are shaping the future and the pivotal role libraries play in this transformation. Libraries are at the centre of the OA movement, and their role is to dissect the open science or OA concept and ensure that researchers are well-informed and educated on the issues of open science/access.

The Library hopes that these webinars will be a cornerstone for the scholarly communication landscape by providing essential education and support to researchers navigating the complexities of open science/access publishing.

Please contact Sakhile Mngomezulu for any assistance with Open Access publishing or for more information about the events.

Authors: Sakhile Mngomezulu and Siviwe Bangani