This session will focus on the Subscribe to Open (S2O) model as a way to achieve open access without article processing charges (APCs). S2O is an equitable, innovative and pragmatic model that works within the existing subscription procurement infrastructure to achieve open access in journals. S2O is a unique model that does not rely on APCs, thereby striving to achieve equity in access to publishing for all authors, regardless of research funding available.
The session will feature presentations from publishers using the S2O model as well as a library that supports the model. The panelists will share learnings and successes from their use of S2O, including the rationale for selecting S2O among the plethora of OA models available and the continuous evolution of the model. Annual Reviews is the first publisher to pilot S2O with 3 journals in 2020, and 8 journals in 2021 and 2022. Annual Reviews will be extending the model to all of their journals for 2023 and will discuss successes and challenges to flipping an entire publisher’s portfolio using the S2O model. University of Toronto Press, which publishes 46 journals and works with 3 models for open access, will share the perspective of a university press program in applying the S2O model to a journal launch. Iowa State University Library will present its experience in supporting various models of OA, with particular focus on its experience with the S2O model and the benefits for libraries.
The session aims to inform the community about the benefits and challenges of S2O from the perspective of both publishers and libraries. Moderated by Graeme Slaght, Head of Scholarly Communications & Copyright Outreach Office at the University of Toronto Libraries, the format will feature a brief introduction, 3 presentations, and Q&A with the audience.
