As you say liberated software implies a removal of restrictions, but I think it implies it was accomplished by force. I think it would be a good term for someone who believes piracy to be a moral imperative, but I don't think it's a good term for expressing the idea of the author willingly sharing their work.
"And the soldiers liberate them, laying mines along their roads." ~Megadeth
"And the soldiers liberate them, laying mines along their roads." ~Megadeth