General Questions
What is DigitalCommons@Fairfield?
DigitalCommons@Fairfield is the institutional repository managed by the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. It openly preserves and shares the scholarly, creative, and institutional output of Fairfield University with a global audience.
Why should I deposit my work in DigitalCommons@Fairfield?
Depositing in DigitalCommons@Fairfield increases the reach and impact of open access scholarship, and library staff are available to assist with other aspects of the publishing process.
Who do I contact for help?
Email the scholarly communication team at digitalcommons@fairfield.edu.
Content & Eligibility
What types of materials can I submit?
- Journal publications (pre-print, post-print, or publisher-permitted versions)
- Conference papers, posters, and presentations
- Books and book contributions
- Data sets and multimedia files
- Open Educational Resources (OER)
- Institutional documents (reports, newsletters, yearbooks)
Who can contribute to DigitalCommons@Fairfield?
Faculty and staff affiliated with Fairfield University. Students in certain graduate programs deposit their completed theses and dissertations as part of the graduation process.
What file formats are accepted?
While most text-based files (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) can be accommodated, PDF is the preferred file format.
Can previously published works be included?
Yes, if copyright or license terms allow. Library staff can assist with checking publisher policies.
Who owns the copyright?
Authors typically retain copyright unless transferred to a publisher. By depositing in DigitalCommons@Fairfield, you grant the university a non-exclusive license to share your work.
Access & Embargo
Is DigitalCommons@Fairfield open access?
Yes, most content is freely accessible worldwide. Some works may have embargo periods or restricted access due to publisher or author requirements.
What is an embargo?
An embargo delays public access to the full text for a set period while metadata remains visible. This is common for dissertations, theses, or works with publisher-imposed restrictions.
Submission Process
How do I submit my work?
Please email the scholarly communication team at digitalcommons@fairfield.edu for assistance with submitting materials to the repository.
Can I include supplemental files?
Yes. You may upload datasets, images, audio, video, and other supporting materials alongside your primary submission.
Can I update or revise my submission?
Yes. Email the scholarly communication team at digitalcommons@fairfield.edu to request updates or corrections.
Can I withdraw my work?
Yes. Withdrawal requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. In most cases, metadata will remain publicly visible to preserve the scholarly record, while files may be removed or restricted depending on circumstances. For assistance or to begin a withdrawal request, contact digitalcommons@fairfield.edu.