Open Access Week

What is Open Access?
Open Access means the removal of obstacles to accessing research outputs, such as journal articles and books, so that they are available to all and not just those who can afford access. Open Access contrasts with the traditional subscription model, where research is published in books and journals which charge subscription fees to readers.

Hiding research behind paywalls means that access is restricted to those who can afford to pay. Research projects are often funded by public money, and Open Access allows the public to benefit from the results. Open Access also benefits researchers in developing countries and reduces inequity in academia.

What is ARRO?
In the University Library we manage ARU’s research repository – Anglia Ruskin Research Online (or ARRO for short) – which provides free access to research outputs produced by ARU researchers. You can access ARRO by going to http://arul.ink/ARRO

• ARRO facts and figures - as of 01/10/24 here are the number of items on ARRO:

• Looking for research from ARU on a particular topic? Looking for research by your lecturer? - use the search option to discover research
• Discover ARU doctoral theses online by searching for theses on ARRO. Theses from before 2015 are hard bound and can be read in the library – you can search for these older theses on Library Search

ARU’s OA policy
To ensure research conducted in ARU is made available to the public without delay, ARU has an Open Access policy to guide researchers on when and how to make their research open access. This also ensures research can be submitted to the next REF.

Looking for more help?

• Check out our ‘Library Guide for Researchers’ for self-help guides to help you with your research  
• Need advice on where to publish your work? Take a look at our Good Publication Guidance guide for more information