The NIH Public Access Policy , which implements Division G, Title II, Section 218 of PL 110-161 (Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008), requires that NIH-supported scientists submit their final peer-reviewed manuscripts to PubMed Central (PMC).

Adding a manuscript to the system is usually painless and most staff members are comfortable with entering their own documents, but if questions arise, the NIH Library can assist in finding answers. Alternatively, librarians at the NIH Library can complete the entire process for you by adding your manuscripts to PMC and creating links for project numbers, thus freeing you to focus on your research.

Where to begin?

The NIH Public Access website ( http://publicaccess.nih.gov) is the place to start. The site explains the Public Access requirements and provides a link to detailed instructions under the "Submission Process" section.

But if you do not have time to review the site, contact the NIH Library. Librarians can assist with:

• manuscript submission
• questions for publishers
• questions about copyright.

To take advantage of manuscript submission assistance, or if you have other questions regarding the Public Access Policy, contact the NIH Library, Reference and Information Services at 301-496-1080 or email nihlibrary.nih.gov.

We look forward to hearing from you.