Diamond Open Access Megajournal Project: Reflection from CUHK Library

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Library, in collaboration with CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), is delighted to announce the release of our report titled “Diamond Open Access Megajournal Project: Reflection from CUHK Library.” This report is the first step in a longer-term project to develop and launch a Diamond OA Megajournal. This inaugural document is free to read and download from the CUHK Library website here.

At the heart of CUHK’s mission lies a steadfast commitment to disseminate knowledge through research in a comprehensive range of disciplines, thereby serving the citizens of Hong Kong, China as a whole, and the wider world community. The CUHK Library underpins the university’s aim to nurture a research environment characterized by openness, inclusiveness, and equity. This principle is not only fundamental to the culture of CUHK but also resonates with the broader academic community. The advancement of Open Scholarship is a key element within the CUHK Library’s Strategic Plan, reflecting our dedication to this transformative movement.

The inception of the innovative Diamond OA Megajournal Project is rooted in the strategic discussions between CUHK Library and CNKI. Drawing inspiration from successful models like UCL Open: Environment, our ambition is to establish an authoritative bilingual platform dedicated to the dissemination of research in the Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities. The project’s thematic focus encompasses the rich cultural heritage of the Greater Bay Area, particularly Lingnan Studies, while also addressing contemporary issues pertinent to China and the international community.

In an era where Open Access publishing is experiencing exponential growth worldwide, the Diamond OA model, free to publish and read, stands out for its equitable approach—eliminating financial barriers for both readers and authors. This report encapsulates the collective wisdom and strategic frameworks conceived during the project’s planning phase. This report offers an overview of OA developments across Europe and the United States, contrasted with the current landscape in China. Furthermore, the document delves into the challenges encountered by the project, including aspects of data security, stakeholder engagement, and financial sustainability. It also highlights CUHK’s strategic initiatives for fostering stakeholder engagement, ensuring effective governance, and upholding stringent quality control measures. In the report, CNKI highlight the potential strengths that the publisher could bring to such a platform, including bilingual technical prowess and robust hosting capabilities.

Report Outline:

1. Introduction
2. Global Open Access Landscape: the Rise of Diamond
3. Trends in China and Implications for Scholarly Communication
4. CUHK Approach and Lessons Learned
5. A Perspective from the Publishing Industry: CNKI Technical Developments to Prepare for Diamond OA Opportunities

The Project Team eagerly anticipates creating a new path in academic publishing through the Diamond OA Megajournal Project. We are open to feedback and look forward to potential collaborations.

Project Team of CUHK Library:

Benjamin Meunier, University Librarian

Bernice Chan, Postgraduate Liaison Librarian, Faculty Liaison Librarian (Social Science)

John Bahrij, Deputy University Librarian

Leo Ma, Head, New Asia College Library & United College Library, Faculty Liaison Librarian (Arts)

LF Li, Associate University Librarian

Lily Ko, Head, Research & Learning Support

Patti Cheung, Associate University Librarian

Sue Fung, Outreach and Engagement Librarian, Faculty Liaison Librarian (Arts & General Education)

Contact for Inquiries, Feedback, and Collaborative Opportunities:

Lily Ko
Head, Research & Learning Support
The Chinese University of Hong Kong Library
Tel: +852 3943 9737
Email: lily-ko@cuhk.edu.hk