Open Access texts are
• digital
• online
• free of charge
• available immediately
• use an author-friendly copyright which safeguards author's rights without impeding the use of the text for research and teaching purposes.

Authors who publish their material in Open Access journals or store it in an institutional or disciplinary repository make their research accessible worldwide. This means that researchers who are based in poorer countries or outside of wealthy institutions also have access to the latest scientific information. Open Access is supported by scientific organizations, libraries and universities around the globe.

Why should I take part?

• Your publications will be available to everyone immediately, in full text and free of charge.
• This increased visibility will lead to your publications being read and cited more frequently (more information at Enabling Open Scholarship).
• Research generated by the University is made easily accessible to society and can be used by all.
• Many institutions offering funding– including the Swiss National Science Foundation – require public access to the publications they fund in Open Access.
• You, the author, choose which rights you wish to retain to your publication.
• You will become part of a worldwide community that backs the Open Access philosophy.
• Need more reasons?

How can I take part?

The section "Publishing" provides you with an introduction to the basics. It is less complicated than you might think – and if you have any questions, the University Library of Bern Open Access Coordination Office will be happy to help.