Professor in Potsdam produces, directs 'Paywall: The Business of Scholarship' documentary | NorthCountryNow

"When library budgets are not able to meet the demands of publisher contracts, subscriptions are canceled and access to information is lost. Young said open access benefits academics by increasing the visibility and impact of research.

'Information hidden behind a paywall is seen as a disadvantage for everyone,' she said. 'Open access allows more information to be added to the intellectual record, and people can continue to research because access is available and there are increased opportunities for collaboration.'

Several prominent academic writers have signed on to help write the documentary storyline, including Science magazine contributing correspondent John Bohannon, Birkbeck University of London Professor Martin Paul Eve, and futurist, educator and consultant Bryan Alexander.

Schmitt will have additional video crew support from Zach Brunelle '17 of Burt Hills, N.Y., and professional videographer Russel Stone of Burlington, Vt.

The grant will support the travel, editing and final mastering, as well as provide a streaming and downloadable file for global viewing of the documentary."