The Library Profession in the Time of Open Access

Abstract

ABSTRACTOpen Access (OA) publications challenge traditional library collections and the result is potentially transformative. The costs of subscriptions will be moved from readers and libraries to authors or be covered by universities, foundations, or other government funders. As a movement, it connects to a much larger cultural narrative and has given the impression of fait accompli. There is still skepticism among individuals involved in academic publishing. Applying the logic of professionalism by Freidson and Abbott, this article suggests that while we may advocate an OA business model to drive down costs, achievement of this model may actually undermine the library profession in the process. To strengthen our professional identity, librarians should embrace our expert role in research practices and broaden our access functions in accord with what users most value.