Since last autumn, datasets published in MIDAS with restricted access are automatically assigned the licence type “Other”. In such cases, the data owner is responsible for defining the terms of data access and reuse.
Users may have questions related to this requirement, so below we provide answers to some essential ones:
In what format should the terms of access and reuse of restricted-access datasets be documented?
It is recommended that the terms of access and reuse of restricted-access datasets be documented either in a dedicated file or in the README (an accompanying text file that explains the dataset’s structure, provenance, and any other contextual details essential for its reuse).
I don't know where to start. Where can I find a sample description of the terms of access and reuse of a restricted-access dataset?
If you are unsure where to start with the document describing the terms of access and reuse of your restricted-access dataset, MIDAS administrators have prepared a template (download .docx) that you can use as the foundation.
I will prepare the description of the terms of access and reuse without using the template. What information should be included in the document?
When describing the terms of access and reuse of a restricted-access dataset, the following questions should be considered:
- Who owns the intellectual property rights to the dataset?
- Who can be granted access to the data?
- For what purposes and in what manner can the data be used?
- For what purposes is the use of the data not allowed?
- May the data be independently shared by users who were granted access to it?
- Under what conditions is the distribution of research results or commercial products based on the data allowed?
- Are there any additional requirements or restrictions for those wishing to use the data?
- How should the access request be made?
- Is it necessary to submit any additional documents with the access request?
- Will the authorisation of access to data be granted by verbal consent or documented in writing?
- Who should be contacted for more information regarding access to data?
- Who will decide on the authorisation of access to data, and how long will the decision take?
Whom can I contact if I have questions?
If you have any questions related to the terms of access and reuse of a restricted-access dataset or the publication of research data in MIDAS, please contact Dr Gintė Medzvieckaitė from Vilnius University Library Scientific Information and Data Division.
2025-12-11