The Role and Distribution of Written Informal Communication in Theoretical High Energy Physics (Rev.)
US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), Miles A. Libbey, American Inst. of Physics, New York, NY (United States), Gerald Zaltman · 1967
A study of "preprint" distribution in theoretical high energy physics has been conducted by the American Institute of Physics with support from the U. S. Atomic Energy Commission.Based on interviews with 45 high energy physicists and other preliminary studies, a questionnaire was developed and circulated to all known high energy theorists.A second questionnaire was sent to a represen tative sample of "preprint librarians" at various institu tions both in the U. S. and abroad.Based on the facts, opinions, and suggestions so gathered the study concluded that an experiment with centralized "preprint" distribution is clearly desirable but that great caution must be exercised, Consequently, a two-step experiment, which would run for 18 months, has been designed for consideration by the physics community.The first step, to run for the full 18 months, would provide a centralized "preprint" announcement service and a directory of high energy theorists.In response to needs determined by the study, a format for the announcement service has been designed to indicate subject category, type and status of each entry.The second step, to run for the last 12 months, would add an experimental distribution system designed to introduce speed, efficiency and economy into informal communication and relieve the author of some of his present burden while retaining for the author all the controls he now has.This would provide for distribu tion of copies of "preprints", under strict control of the authors, directly to certain selected and authorized individ uals.To help in determining the demand for such services charges would be made for about the last six months.