Here at MDPI Books, we specialise in two book formats: “Open Access Books” and “Reprints”. We understand that this terminology might not be self-explanatory, so let us help. In this brief article, we’ll explain exactly what we mean by a Reprint, how they differ from Open Access books, and their benefits for academic Open Access publishing.

What is a Reprint?

A Reprint is a reproduction of a journal article or collection of articles. MDPI Books offers the opportunity to produce reproductions of articles previously published with MDPI in book format or online as Open Access. The articles in a Reprint are from a specific journal or Special Issue, Topical Collection, Topic or Proceedings.

How Reprints differ from Open Access Books

Importantly, Reprints are not “traditional” books in the same sense as Monographs. But they are assigned an ISBN and DOI and are freely available in our Online Library.

The main difference between Open Access Books and Reprints is that the former present entirely original work that has not seen prior publication in academic journals, whereas the latter functions as an opportunity for previously published research from journals to be compiled and revisited.

The benefits of Reprints

Preservation and accessibility are two key benefits of Reprints. Reprints make valuable content accessible to a broader audience. This includes researchers, students, and professionals who may have missed the original publication.

A Reprint also offers the chance to update content and address new developments, ensuring that the information remains relevant and useful in the context of evolving research and scholarship.

Finally, Reprints serve as a historical record of specific moments within academic discourse, preserving seminal works and documenting the progression of knowledge within a particular field.

The importance of Reprints

Reprints are an important element of Open Access book publishing, preserving valuable content and ensuring continued relevance. They allow significant research to recirculate within the academic ecosystem, helping to move academic discussions in the right direction. MDPI Books Reprints contribute to the accessibility and longevity of important academic works, enriching scholarly discourse and advancing knowledge across various disciplines.

Browse our Reprints using our Online Library.