Top 10 Low-Cost Open Access Book Publishers

Following is a list of ten low-cost open-access book publishers, along with the indexing, distribution, and services offered:

Deep Science Publishing 

Deep Science Publishing is an emerging cost effective open-access book publisher specializing in scientific and technical disciplines. Deep Science Publishing focuses in publishing open-access authored books, edited books, textbook, book chapters, monographs, and thesis, ensuring that high-impact research and scholarly work are available freely to anyone, anywhere in the world. Their books are indexed in Google Books, Google Scholar, ISBN, Crossref, ensuring high visibility. Deep Science Publishing offers rigorous peer review, professional formatting, and broad digital distribution, making it an ideal choice for researchers seeking quality open-access publishing at a reasonable cost.

Ubiquity Press

Ubiquity Press is known for its affordable open-access publishing model, making it an attractive choice for authors with limited budgets. They ensure indexing in Google Books, DOAB (Directory of Open Access Books), and Crossref, enhancing book discoverability. The publisher supports CC BY licensing, allowing free access while ensuring proper citation for authors.

IntechOpen

IntechOpen is one of the most well-known open-access book publishers, specializing in science, technology, and medicine. Their books are indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, DOAB, and Google Books, ensuring broad dissemination. The platform offers professional peer-review, formatting, and open-access repository integration.

Open Book Publishers (OBP)

OBP is a non-profit publisher that offers some of the most budget-friendly open-access publishing options. OBP books are indexed in Google Books, DOAB, and WorldCat, and the publisher focuses on high academic quality, peer review, and print-on-demand availability. They allow multiple formats like PDF, EPUB, and HTML for free downloads.

Springer Nature – Palgrave Open

Springer Nature’s open-access arm, particularly Palgrave Open, provides open-access books in the social sciences and humanities. However, indexing is highly prestigious, covering Scopus, Web of Science, and DOAB. Springer offers strong editorial services, global distribution, and digital accessibility, making it a reputable but costly option.

MDPI Books

MDPI Books operates under the same open-access model as its journals, offering relatively lower BPCs. Books published by MDPI are indexed in DOAB, Google Books, and Crossref, ensuring visibility in research databases. The publisher provides peer review, DOI assignment, and professional typesetting to maintain quality.

Lambert Academic Publishing (LAP)

LAP is a low-cost publisher that provides open-access publishing with no upfront BPC in many cases, though authors may need to purchase copies. While indexing is limited, books are available on Google Books and various online bookstores. Their model allows self-publishing with minimal intervention, making it an option for those looking for a simple and free open-access solution.

Frontiers Books

Frontiers Books specializes in open-access academic books. Books are indexed in Scopus, DOAB, and Web of Science, ensuring strong academic visibility. The platform offers high-quality editorial and peer-review services, making it suitable for authors seeking rigorous academic standards with moderate costs.

Routledge Open Books (Taylor & Francis)

Routledge offers open-access publishing through its Taylor & Francis Open program. However, books are indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, and DOAB, offering high prestige. Their services include comprehensive peer review, editorial support, and international distribution, making it a good option for funded authors.

SciELO Books

SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) is a Latin American-based initiative offering free or low-cost open-access book publishing. Books are indexed in Google Books, DOAB, and SciELO’s own platform, making it an attractive option for researchers, particularly in developing countries.

 

Learn more in Top 10 Free Book Publishers

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do authors retain copyrights in Open Access publishing?

Yes, many open access publishers use Creative Commons (CC) licenses, enabling authors to retain rights while allowing public access.

Are there fees for open access publishing?

Book Processing Charges (BPCs) cover publishing costs and vary widely. Many publishers charge BPC ranging from 1,000 USD to 15,000 USD, while some offer subsidized or free options.

Where are open access books indexed?

Indexing varies but includes Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, DOAB, and institutional repositories.

What formats are available for open access books?

Common formats include PDF, EPUB, MOBI, and HTML, ensuring accessibility across devices.

Do open access publishers offer print copies?

Yes, many provide Print-On-Demand (POD) services, with some offering retail integration via Amazon and bookstores.

What are affordable open access publishing options?

Deep Science Publishing, Ubiquity Press, OBP, MDPI, Frontiers.

What are the best free self-publishing platforms?

Amazon KDP, Smashwords, Lulu, Google Play Books.

Which publishers ensure strong indexing?

Publishers ensuring strong indexing include Scopus (SpringerOpen, Elsevier), DOAB (OBP, Ubiquity Press), and University Repositories (MIT Press).

How to boost open access book visibility?

Choose a well-indexed publisher, offer multiple formats, and promote widely.

What is the future of open access publishing?

The future of open access publishing includes more funding opportunities, improved discoverability through enhanced indexing, and innovative formats like interactive and multimedia-rich books.