BEYOND TRADITIONAL PRINT RESOURCES: ACCESSING INFORMATION ABOUT GEOSCIENCE COLLECTIONS

Geoscience information utilizes many formats - ranging from field notes, maps, and books to rock and water samples, animal specimens, and electronic files. Having the proper tools for access is an important facet of making geoscience collections available. The proper tool can provide insight into and information about a collection as well as allowing individuals to view or interact with the collection from afar. Access to a given collection can range from traditional onsite paper finding aids to in-depth websites showcasing highlights through the use of emerging forms of technology. Advances in technology also permit access to rare, fragile items that cannot be handled on a regular basis.