EXPANDING ACCESS TO A PUBLIC RESEARCH COLLECTION

Research museums at public institutions have a responsibility to make specimens and associated data accessible to students, faculty, researchers, and the public. With the exception of some exhibits, public access to research collections is often limited due to collection facility constraints and a lack of knowledge among non-university users about how such collections can be utilized. The University of Michigan Museum of Paleontology (UMMP) is taking a two-fold approach to increasing the utility and accessibility of its holdings by focusing on digital 3D specimen development and volunteer engagement.

The UM Online Repository of Fossils (UMORF) is a custom-built platform hosting virtual UMMP specimens. The online viewing system includes features for research and teaching, such as a measurement tool, consistent anatomical orientations, and orthographic views, as well as those features intended for fun exploration, such as stereoscopic 3D using inexpensive red-cyan glasses. UMORF provides easy access to research-grade specimens and has been used for K-12 and university teaching, identification of ‘backyard finds’, exhibits in other museums, and support of news media stories. We have now added the capability to support much larger models with 100s of millions of points, allowing presentation of complex objects and diorama scenes with high fidelity. Such scenes can be annotated to provide context and opportunities for guided or exploratory learning. Emerging UMORF projects include engagement with K-12 programs and a 3D guide to local fossils.

Recently, we have worked to start a volunteer program with our local fossil club, the Friends of the UMMP. This group of avid collectors have donated countless specimens to the UMMP and provide invaluable local knowledge to researchers and the public. Being part of ‘behind the scenes’ projects provides a sense of belonging and benefits the collection. Additionally, we provided physical space for meetings in our collection facility and now provide a digital platform for participation. For these collectors, it is also important to have access to recent literature and researchers. As such we act as liaisons for the club members, connecting them with researchers for discussions and ensuring their well-curated fossils are examined and documented in peer-reviewed literature.