DIGITIZATION AND AVAILABILITY OF PRINTED ACADEMIC WORKS: PROPOSAL FOR UPDATING THE INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORY POLICY OF THE FLUMINENSE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Prior to the establishment of the Institutional Repository of the Fluminense Federal University (RIUFF), printed academic works such as undergraduate theses (TCCs), dissertations, and doctoral theses were accessible exclusively in physical format, which limited their visibility. The implementation of RIUFF expanded remote access; however, academic works produced before its creation were not integrated into the digital platform due to legal and copyright concerns. This study aims to propose improvements to overcome these limitations, including the addition of new chapters to RIUFF’s policy addressing copyright and the digitization and availability of printed academic works. It also proposes the creation of instruments such as a Model Authorization Term and a Document Withdrawal Form, with the goal of ensuring a balance between open access, digital preservation, and copyright protection. Furthermore, the study suggests best practices for repository management, aiming to facilitate the digitization process, increase faculty and student participation, and promote the preservation and dissemination of UFF’s scientific and academic knowledge. With the implementation of these proposals, UFF will be able to strengthen its institutional repository policy and consolidate its position as a reference in academic knowledge management and preservation.