Professor Maria Fasli, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
Over the last few months, we have carefully considered where we can make savings to our Library subscriptions to reduce costs and support our financial sustainability and we have made the decision to reconfigure our Elsevier subscriptions. This follows prolonged national negotiations between Elsevier and Jisc, during which Elsevier’s final offer did not meet sector requirements. As a result, several leading UK universities - including Sheffield, Surrey, York, Essex and Lancaster - have chosen not to accept the agreement.
This is not a cancellation. Instead, we will retain access to a carefully selected, data‑informed set of frequently used journals that continue to support teaching and research. Where subscribed access to other titles is no longer available, staff and students will still be able to obtain content through open access versions, or through the Library’s rapid inter-library loan service.
Elsevier was chosen for reconfiguration because its content spans all subject areas, ensuring that the impact is shared across faculties. Adjusting this agreement supports required in‑year financial savings while aligning with our strategic priorities.
The Library conducted a Faculty consultation in the New Year to identify priority titles and has worked with Elsevier to negotiate continued access and acceptable terms. Usage and access will continue to be monitored throughout the year.
For reassurance, researchers can continue to publish in Elsevier journals. For hybrid/subscription titles, depositing the accepted manuscript in Elements will ensure compliance with funder and REF Open Access requirements. For Open Access‑only journals, Library-managed funds remain available for eligible UKRI and Wellcome Trust‑funded authors, who should contact the Library ahead of submission where possible.
If you have questions or need support, please contact: library.researchsupport@sussex.ac.uk
Professor Maria Fasli
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)