Understanding Open Access and Data Sharing Mandates  Investigating Library Research & Data Services (LRDS)

Choosing an appropriate and impactful publication venue is crucial for all researchers; however, at the Leatherby Libraries, we understand how vital this decision is for Chapman University researchers who have received federal grant funding. By the end of 2025, all federal agencies will require funded researchers to make both their resulting publications and the underlying data open access (or publicly available) at the time of publication. Our librarians are here to point researchers to resources and services to help them navigate this funder landscape, understand what is required by their grants, and fulfill those obligations. 

Open Access and Data Sharing Mandates LibGuide

We have prepared a comprehensive Open Access and Data Sharing Mandates LibGuide that breaks down the requirements for sharing open access manuscripts and associated data for each federal funding agency, as well as several non-governmental organizations and funders. This guide provides an overview of each agency’s unique requirements, including whether an agency requires researchers to make their manuscripts open access in a designated repository or with a specific license, or if certain provisions must be addressed in a data management and sharing plan. It also provides links to relevant policies on each funder’s website, offering users additional information. 

Assistance from LRDS Librarians 

The Library Research & Data Services (LRDS) team is here to assist with the requirements for sharing your research publications and data. Our librarians can: 

• Help find and understand the requirements of your funding agency.

• Assist in identifying the appropriate place and procedures for depositing and sharing these research outputs.

• Aid in crafting data management and sharing plans when applying for funding.

• Guide in formatting your data for long-term preservation and sharing.

• Help understand the compatibility of a publication venue (like a specific journal) with a funder’s requirements, or help identify an appropriate publisher to submit your work. 

Workshops, Instruction, and Consultations 

To learn more about open access and data sharing mandates and best practices, the LRDS team also offers: 

• Workshops on topics like open access, data management, and finding publication venues that align with funding agency requirements.

• Classroom and faculty instruction tailored to specific courses or department goals.

• One-on-one consultations for Chapman faculty, students, and staff.

• Several related Scholarly Research & Publishing LibGuides with helpful information on anything related to open access, data management, and data sharing.

Whether you’re about to apply for a new grant or trying to fulfill funder requirements on an existing one, the LRDS team is here to guide you every step of the way.