Scottish Universities Press to launch open access textbook programme in 2025

The initiative marks a significant expansion of SUP’s publishing portfolio, following the successful launch of its monograph and edited collection series in 2024.

SUP is a library-led, not-for-profit initiative supported by 20 member institutions of SCURL, the Scottish Confederation of University and Research Libraries. It exists to make high-quality academic content freely available to a global audience and to reduce barriers to knowledge and education.

The new textbook programme aims to address growing demand for affordable and accessible learning resources across UK higher education. Authors from any UK higher education institution are welcome to submit proposals in any subject area, with a focus initially on postgraduate-level content. Undergraduate and multimedia content will be considered in later phases.

Textbooks will be available open access upon publication, with PDF and EPUB formats free to download. Affordable print copies will also be available, and authors will receive royalties on sales. All proposals will undergo a rigorous peer review process managed by the SUP editorial board.

The publishing model offers a comprehensive service, including editorial guidance, production, design, promotion and global dissemination. Pricing is reviewed and confirmed on acceptance, with affordability as a key consideration.

Hannah Whaley, Chair of the SUP Management Board and Director of Library Academic and Cultural Services at the University of Dundee, said, “Our open access textbook programme reflects our commitment to equity in education. By offering a sustainable and inclusive publishing route for academic authors, we hope to provide students with essential resources at no cost and support teaching and learning across the sector.”

Gillian Daly, Executive Officer at SCURL, added, “The new programme responds to national conversations about textbook affordability and access. SUP’s approach offers a collaborative and practical model, led by the sector, to support students and institutions alike.”

This development is part of SUP’s broader strategy to expand its publishing remit to include a wide range of scholarly outputs. Plans to introduce an open access journal programme are currently under consideration.