Ex Cathedra call for ACS OpenArchives

Richard Armstrong, the new editor of the ACS journal, Biochemistry has written a very important opinion piece on new directions for the journal, including his stance concerning what has become known as "open archives". To put his words in perspective, appreciate that for libraries, the cost of purchasing the ACS Journal Archives is a not inconsequential additional annual cost to the base subscription for current volumes. In essence, the Library is buying the same backfile materials over and over again -- an unsustainable situation. Here's what Dr Armstrong has to say:

The ascension of Biochemistry to a premier scientific journal was only possible because of the support of the largest and most active scientific society in the world, the American Chemical Society. However, one issue is having a negative impact on Biochemistry in particular and ACS publications in general. While the ACS was an industry leader in developing electronic archives for its journals, it has yet to implement what the majority of scientists agree is in the best interest of science: a free, publicly accessible electronic archives policy. This has been embraced by competing publications of other scientific societies, particularly those in the realm of biology. I know that some potential authors and reviewers refuse to publish in or review for ACS journals because of this policy. This is obviously not good, as it will ultimately erode the impact of ACS journals.

He goes on to say:

The archives policy is, as it should be, in the hands of ACS governance. ACS governance is ultimately in the hands of the membership. If you believe, as I do, that this is an important issue, become part of the solution and make your thoughts known to the ACS Publications Division, the Publications Committee, and Board.

Richard N. Armstrong, Editorial. Biochemistry 43(1): 1-2 (January 13, 2004)
http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/bi040001u

Posted by Tom on February 10, 2004