Kevin Smith, author of the Scholarly Communications @ Duke blog (definitely check that one out!), recently pointed to a video that beautifully sums up the importance of capturing research for the public good, and the central role that libraries play in that mission. As Smith says,
“In her four-minute speech Commissioner Kroes does two important things. First, she succinctly states the case for public access to government-funded research, including the data that underlies research. She provides a sterling example of a politician (she was in both the Dutch Parliament and its cabinet) who really understands the needs and difficulties of scholarly research, as well as the opportunities provided by the digital environment. The second important part of Commissioner Kroes’ speech is her announcement that the European Commission will expand its public access mandate for funded research to include all research supported by the EC. Time for the U.S. to follow suit, if we do not want to lose ground in innovation and economic development”
I was struck by the Commissioner’s support for libraries as a central partner in this endeavor. Check out this video!
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