FORTHCOMING
We encourage authors to post their articles on their web page(s) or an open access online repository such as Social Science Research Network (SSRN), provided that the article is labeled as “forthcoming 103 B.U. L. Rev. (2023)” prior to publication, and after publication as “103 B.U. L. Rev. ___ (2023)” where “___” is the first page the Article appears on in Volume 103.
Executive Summary
The article discusses the policy of the Boston University Law Review regarding the posting of forthcoming articles on authors' web pages or open access online repositories. The policy requires authors to label their articles as 'forthcoming' prior to publication and to include the volume and page number after publication. This policy aims to balance the interests of authors, readers, and the law review in promoting access to scholarly work while maintaining the integrity of the publication process.
Key Points
- ▸ Authors are permitted to post forthcoming articles on their web pages or open access online repositories
- ▸ Articles must be labeled as 'forthcoming' prior to publication
- ▸ After publication, articles must include the volume and page number
Merits
Promotes Access to Scholarly Work
The policy allows authors to share their work with a wider audience, promoting access to knowledge and facilitating collaboration and debate.
Demerits
Potential for Confusion
The policy may lead to confusion among readers if articles are not properly labeled or if multiple versions of an article are available online.
Expert Commentary
The policy of the Boston University Law Review reflects a nuanced approach to balancing the interests of authors, readers, and the law review. By permitting authors to post forthcoming articles online while requiring proper labeling and updating, the policy promotes access to scholarly work while maintaining the integrity of the publication process. However, the policy also raises important questions about the role of law reviews in the digital age and the need for clearer guidelines on open access publishing.
Recommendations
- ✓ Authors should carefully review and comply with the policy to avoid confusion and ensure that their articles are properly labeled and updated
- ✓ Law reviews should consider developing clearer guidelines on open access publishing and the use of online repositories to promote access to scholarly work
