STEP #1:  Many publishers allow authors the right to submit an article to an institutional open-access repository. Check your publication agreement, or consult SHERPA/ROMEO to determine whether your journal automatically allows its authors to submit articles to repositories such as Amherst's.

  • If it DOES, skip to STEP #4.

[Note: Please read the full entry for your journal on the SHERPA/ROMEO website; do not rely solely on the color classification system, since many journals have complex systems of restrictions and limited allowances.]

  • If it does NOT, continue to STEP #2.

STEP #2: Consider petitioning your publisher for an exception to its policy. Either call your editor or simply attach a SPARC Author's Addendum to your contract.

  • If the journal APPROVES your petition, skip to STEP #4.
  • If the journal REFUSES your petition, continue to STEP #3.

STEP #3: You've reached this step if (a) you chose not to petition your journal or (b) your journal declined your petition. To publish with the journal anyway, simply invoke a waiver to Amherst's policy by completing the Waiver form.

You've now fulfilled your obligations under the faculty's open access resolution. You do not need to complete STEP #4.

STEP #4: Submit your article to an Open Access repository as outlined in our Open Access Guide.

You are done!

If you have questions or would like assistance with any of the above, speak with your library liaison or contact Library Digital Programs.

You may also wish to consult the Open access FAQ, or read the Open access resolution.