Universities play a crucial role in the production and dissemination of knowledge, acting as pillars of intellectual, scientific, and cultural progress. As dynamic hubs of research and innovation, they generate groundbreaking ideas, technologies, and discoveries that shape societies, stimulate economic growth, and tackle pressing global challenges. The knowledge produced within universities not only advances science, medicine, and technology but also enriches the humanities, social sciences, and the arts, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and human experience.
Beyond creating knowledge, universities bear the important responsibility of transmitting this wealth of information to students, equipping them with critical thinking skills, specialized expertise, and the ability to address complex societal issues. By nurturing creativity, curiosity, and intellectual independence, universities prepare individuals not only for careers but also for active and informed citizenship in an ever-changing world.
However, access to education should not be hindered by financial barriers. The democratization of knowledge is essential to ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of socioeconomic background. Providing higher education without costs upholds the principle that knowledge is a public good, meant to benefit society as a whole, rather than being restricted to those who can afford it. Free education promotes social mobility, empowers individuals, and strengthens economies by cultivating a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. More importantly, it affirms the fundamental belief that education is a right, not a privilege—one that drives innovation, supports social justice, and creates a more equitable and prosperous future.
These guidelines are dedicated to university presses, particularly open access diamond ones, and focus solely on the publication of textbooks, a specific type of publication. They do not address organizational and management issues.
The guidelines may also be useful for university presses that are not diamond but are interested in publishing open textbooks, potentially as a step toward transforming the press into a diamond one.
Access the full Guidelines on publishing open access digital textbooks