Guidance for LSE Academics and Researchers: Open Access Book Publishing Contracts

Open Access (OA) book publishing is becoming more prevalent in academic publishing – in fact, it is the default expectation for publicly funded research. By making a book freely available online, authors can reach audiences well beyond academic institutions and traditional markets, while still benefiting from formal publishing processes such as peer review, editorial support, and professional dissemination. OA book publishing also aligns with the broader movement towards transparency, equitable access, and the responsible use of public funding in research. This guidance is intended to provide an overview of some of the factors to consider before deciding to publish OA. Please note that this document does not constitute legal advice. If you have specific legal or contractual concerns, professional legal advice should be sought.