Open access journals are freely accessible online without any barriers to access or use, making them an attractive option for many researchers and readers. However, there are still some compelling reasons to subscribe to open access journals in print form as well.
One reason is the convenience and portability of print journals. While online access is convenient for quick reference or searching, print journals can be easily carried and read in a variety of settings, including in locations where internet access is limited or unreliable. Print journals also provide a physical backup in case of technical issues or downtime with online access.
Another reason to subscribe to open access journals in print is to support the dissemination of research in areas where digital access is limited or unavailable. While many parts of the world now have widespread internet access, this is not yet true everywhere, and print journals can help ensure that research is accessible to a wider audience.
Finally, subscribing to open access journals in print can also be a way to support the mission of open access more broadly. By subscribing to print copies, readers can help sustain the funding model for open access journals, which may rely on a combination of author fees, grants, and subscriptions to remain sustainable.
Some examples of open access journals that are available in print format include PLOS Biology [1], Journal of Medical Internet Research [2] and Public Library of Science (PLOS) One [3]. These journals and others like them can provide readers with both the convenience of online access and the benefits of print subscription.
In summary, while open access journals are primarily digital and freely accessible, there are still good reasons to consider subscribing to print versions as well. Print journals can offer benefits in terms of convenience, accessibility, and support for open access.
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