In France, scientific publishers market most books as paperbacks. They are as durable as hardcover books. They can be produced more quickly and more cheaply. This is true in the United States, also. For example, Johns Hopkins University Press sells the same book for $65 in the hardcover version and $24.95 in paperback, or another one for $40 hardcover and $19.95 paperback. The technical content of the hardcover and paperback versions is identical.
Scientists are not only readers, but also authors. Writing is hard, time-consuming work, and we have an interest in being read. If books are lower-cost, more will be sold and read. Publishers will have a higher volume of sales and thus profit. Writers will have a larger audience. Therefore, may I suggest that all publishers go to paperback books for their benefit, and especially that of the world.
JOHN H. WEISBURGER Senior Member and Director Emeritus American ...
