ARL Statement to Scholarly Publishers on the Global Economic Crisis (RLI 262, Feb. 2009)

Current economic conditions are affecting the funding base of even the largest libraries in the US and Canada to a degree that is unprecedented in recent memory. The situation has altered relatively quickly and most institutions had already completed renewals for 2009 serial subscriptions. There has been concern in the library community that many publishers may be operating at some remove from the realities of the situation and the very widespread preparations that libraries are making to reduce expenditures. In light of these circumstances, ARL issued a statement intended to paint a picture for publishers of the budgetary conditions ARL libraries are operating under currently and are preparing to face in 2010. Although the statement conveys unpleasant realities, it is important to make the situation as clear as possible so that publishers can make appropriate decisions and have as much time as possible to consult with the library community. The ARL statement reflects a belief that many publishers of contemporary scholarship and research will be seeking to remain true to a shared commitment to promote the broad exchange of new scholarship and research; therefore, it suggests some strategies that would be welcomed by the ARL community. A similar statement was released by the International Coalition of Library Consortia (ICOLC) last month. The two statements should reinforce each other’s messages and provide publishers with information to help them make their decisions. The statement, included in full below, was created by the ARL Scholarly Communication Steering Committee and endorsed by the ARL Board. RLI 262 6