Libraries routinely struggle to afford access to expensive journals, and patrons may not be able to obtain every scholarly paper they need. Is Open Access (OA) the answer? In this presentation, Walt Crawford explains what OA is (and isn’t) as he summarizes the benefits and drawbacks of different OA models, such as “Green,” “Gold,” “Gratis,” “Libre,” and various hybrid forms. Addressing the subject from the library perspective while taking a realistic view of corporate interests, Crawford presents a coherent review of what Open Access is today and what it may become. Future implications for libraries will be discussed with time provided for questions and interactive discussion.
