Structured content analysis of open access book policies

European university and research funder approaches

Bibliographic Data

ID17600343
AuthorsLisa Matthias (0000-0002-2612-2132, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, corresponding author), Nataliia Bazeliuk (0000-0001-6156-1897, Tampere University), Mikael Laakso (0000-0003-3951-7990, Tampere University)
Year2026
Publication date2026-03-26
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueScience and Public Policy (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0302-3427 • E-ISSN: 1471-5430
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/scipol/scag021
OpenAlexW7140933014
LanguageEN
References cited18

While research on open access (OA) policies has expanded in recent years, systematic research examining the textual content and specific policy elements remains limited, particularly for books. Drawing on a review of existing research and an analysis of sixty-six recent OA book policies, this study introduces a novel methodological framework for structured policy analysis and maps the current OA book policy landscape in Europe. Our results reveal substantial heterogeneity in the policy environment, with variation both in the presence of policy elements and in their operationalization across policies. This diverse policy environment creates implementation challenges at multiple levels, from researchers managing different requirements to institutions developing support strategies, and publishers adapting their services to meet varied policy demands. Given that OA policies significantly impact research practices at individual, institutional, and national levels, yet systematic evidence remains scarce, our findings emphasize the need for increased research and monitoring in this domain

Bibliometrics · Content analysis · Operationalization · Policy analysis · Policy studies · Research Policy · Systematic review · Library Collection Development and Digital Resources · Publishing and Scholarly Communication · scientometrics and bibliometrics research

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access