Reserves have been in existence for a very long time and electronic reserves are now widespread. Both have long been affected by copyright legislation. Brice Austin charts the development of Reserves and their relationship to copyright in the United States. The book, although specifically dealing with American copyright legislation and therefore of less direct relevance to the Australia and the UK scene, is nevertheless a very good read.
The author traces the history of Reserves from the 1870s to date. He reflects on the introduction of copying in the 1940s and the wider acceptance of copying in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He goes into detail about the 1978 and the 1982 USA copyright laws and their impact on Reserve. Course Reserves were not mentioned specifically in the laws and this meant that fair use was often interpreted very narrowly.
Electronic reserves came about in the mid‐1990s. They offered relief from loss, theft or damage. They provided better access for students, they resolved issues of space limitations and they have reduced the need for re‐shelving. However, copyright and licensing issues are more difficult now than ever before.
The author considers the future of electronic reserves and defines three possible scenarios. In the first, he suggests that as web‐based course management systems develop and academics rely on them more, Reserves may become irrelevant. Furthermore, copyright legislation may make Reserves less desirable. Brice's second scenario sees Reserves as small print collections because everything is available online or through course management systems. His third scenario relies on strong leadership from information professionals in the area of copyright, as well as collaboration and flexibility. This scenario sees expanded, multi‐faceted Reserve services.
In conclusion, the author suggests that we should strive as a profession to make Reserves relevant.
For the USA reader, the book provides a well researched history of Reserves, electronic reserves and copyright. Useful appendices are provided at the end of the book, including the relevant section of the 1982 USA Copyright Law and other guidelines that have been developed to assist in copyright interpretation.
For the non‐USA reader, the book provides an interesting history of Reserves and electronic reserves. It also provides a useful summary of current issues.
