David Carlson
Dean, library Affairs
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
This session will include a presentation and discussion of the concept of a safe harbor initiative. In such an effort, libraries would publicly commit to set aside—to safe harbor—journals in any serials cancellation process for a specific period of time (five years is proposed). To gain such a commitment, any publisher, commercial or non-profit, would need to publicly commit to placing all journal content in a public access platform no more than one year from date of publication. Advantages and concerns about this approach will be presented. Discussion will follow and input/reaction of attendees sought. Questions to consider will include:
• Does such a proposal seem viable?
• Would it have a chance at success?
• Would libraries participate?
• Would publishers participate?