Describes the evolution of the scholarly communication system to its current stage, with special attention paid to the fundamental principles that drive the system. The influences of relevant principles of and advances in librarianship on the structuring and restructuring of the system are demonstrated. (nine references) (CLB)

Discussion of scholarly communication focuses on the prospects for structural reform based on a loosely coupled system instead of the often-assumed interdependent system. Topics addressed include libraries and academic institutions; library networks; scholars and journals; the role of university presses; price discrimination; informal information…