In a significant stride towards achieving globally equitable access to Open Access publishing, PeerJ is has announced the launch of its new membership model, Annual Institutional Memberships (AIMs). This innovative approach moves beyond the traditional Article Processing Charge (APC) and fosters collective action to support inclusive access to research. The University of Bath has joined as the inaugural institutional partner under this transformative program.
AIMs revolutionize the Open Access landscape by eliminating payment barriers for authors and streamlining the administrative complexities associated with APCs. Moreover, they offer substantial value to participating institutions. The University of Bath, as the pioneering partner, grants its faculty unlimited publishing opportunities for a flat fee.
Reflecting on the inception of PeerJ, it was clear that the APC model was not the most sustainable or equitable approach for Open Access. A decade ago, PeerJ introduced Personal Lifetime Memberships, recognizing the need for better alternatives. Today, the limitations of APCs have become increasingly evident. With AIMs, PeerJ takes a momentous stride towards achieving its overarching goal of global equity in Open Access, envisioning a future where authors no longer bear the burden of APCs.
AIMs are designed to be user-friendly, providing simplicity in management and procurement. The pricing structure is tiered based on an institution's publishing history in PeerJ's journal portfolio. During the renewal process, if the equivalent APC cost would have been lower than the Membership fee, partners have the option to allocate the difference towards their Membership renewal or contribute to the Global Publishing Fund. This fund supports authors who lack the means to publish their work through Open Access.
PeerJ is confident that AIMs will streamline the Open Access publishing process, making it more accessible and affordable for researchers and librarians alike. The collaboration with the University of Bath as the pioneering partner in this initiative is a cause for celebration. PeerJ eagerly anticipates future partnerships with institutions worldwide. With pricing starting as low as $2000/year, all institutions seeking fair value Open Access are encouraged to reach out and explore this transformative opportunity by emailing business@peerj.com.
The launch of Annual Institutional Memberships marks a significant milestone in the journey towards globally equitable access to Open Access publishing. PeerJ remains committed to advancing the principles of inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability in the dissemination of scientific knowledge, and AIMs are a pivotal step in that direction.
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