Abstract

This paper opens with a brief examination of recent trends in scholarly journal publishing. This includes the rise in the number of titles, constriction of the publishing industry by mergers and acquisitions, and rising journal prices. Against this background, electronic journal developments are examined. Endeavors to maximize access to the journal literature through a variety of initiatives including open-archiving and co-operative publishing ventures are discussed. The paper concludes with a look towards the future direction of scholarly journals.