The Research Publications and Copyright policy supports researchers to make their publications open access immediately on publication. By depositing a copy in the University’s institutional repository, White Rose Research Online (WRRO), researchers will be able to ensure their work is freely available to all. The policy further advances the Library’s extensive support for open research and open access, and aligns with similar policies being developed within the N8 Research Partnership, as well as more broadly across the UK Higher Education sector.
The Open Educational Resources (OER) policy recognises the University’s support for the growing movement on freely available, reusable digital educational resources. The Library provides extensive support and guidance for academic staff on creating and sharing OER, and in the past year has worked colleagues at Leeds and York to develop the White Rose Libraries OER Toolkit, and establishing the Sheffield Pressbooks Network. We recently became the first UK institution to join the Open Education Network (OEN).
Anna Clements, Director of Library Services and University Librarian at the University of Sheffield, said: “I am delighted that the University has adopted these policies. The Library is committed to supporting the University’s digital education goals and the aim of developing an equitable and open environment for research and education. These policies mean that our researchers can be confident that those wishing to access our research results can do so irrespective of their ability to pay, and that our students have access to high quality digital resources to support their learning.”
For more details, see the press release from the University.