October 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of Access to Research, a pioneering service offered by Publishers' Licensing Services (PLS) that grants free, walk-in access to over 40 million academic articles through participating public libraries across the UK. Since its inception, the service has bridged the gap between the academic publishing industry and local communities, offering unprecedented access to cutting-edge research and vital scientific knowledge, including key developments in the fight against climate change.
Launched in response to recommendations from the Finch Group, a UK government committee focused on improving access to publicly funded research, Access to Research has been a vital tool for students, researchers, and general library users alike. The initiative was made possible through a collaborative effort between PLS, the Publishers Association, the Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers (ALPSP), and Libraries Connected. Technology company ProQuest has generously provided the online service delivery tool free of charge since the service began.
As of September 2024, Access to Research is available in over 99% of public libraries across the UK, with contributions from 21 major publishers. Over the past year alone, more than 150,000 searches have been conducted on a wide array of topics, ranging from Victorian history to the latest medical advances.
This anniversary coincides with Green Libraries Week (October 7-13, 2024), organized by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), emphasizing not only the decade-long success of Access to Research but also the pivotal role libraries play in supporting sustainability and climate action.
Over the past decade, Access to Research has helped underscore the importance of local libraries as essential hubs for learning, community engagement, and personal development. By providing free access to academic resources, the service enhances the libraries’ existing offerings, empowering users with trustworthy and authoritative information. From full-time students to retirees, people from all walks of life benefit from this valuable resource.
According to the latest PLS user survey, Access to Research has found broad popularity across various demographics, with full-time students and retirees each representing 20% of the overall user base.
As PLS celebrates ten years of Access to Research, it continues to shine a light on the integral role that libraries play in their communities and the ongoing partnership between the publishing industry and public libraries.
Click here to read the original press release.
