Re: Harassing Museums

["Steve Brusatte" <dinoland@lycos.com>]

On Fri, 28 Sep 2001 09:48:50  
 Andy Farke wrote:
><< However, to truly be a public trust institution they need
>to allow easier access to interested persons. References are nice, but in
>reality, may not be easily obtainable. >>
>
>I went through the whole museum access thing back when I was a high school
>student working on my science fair projects (dealing with ceratopsians).
>Back then, I found the most effective thing was to just network, network,
>network! The more contacts you can make (and the more people who know your
>name), the better.
>
>Another thing that made it *much* easier for me was the fact that I was
>working with many small, Western museums (the midwest/west seems to be much
>more laid back). If I told them who I was, what I was doing, etc., access
>*usually* wasn't a problem. And finally, (something which is common
>knowledge, but I'll say it anyway), it goes a long way if you're polite and
>professional! Be a good guest, and you'll have no problem getting access in
>the future. Collections managers have long memories. . .

Oh, yeah!  I definitely agree that Midwestern and Western museums are much 
easier to gain access to.  I think I was given access to the type specimen of 
Cryolophosaurus (which was then held at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL) 
when I was 15!  I am also going to be conducting some geochemistry research at 
Illinois State University soon.  Although doing geochemistry research with mass 
spectrometers isn't the same as gaining access to fossils (my study will 
involve fossils, though), I guess it shows that if you are persistent and know 
the right people (yes, networking: it really works), you can gain access to 
fossils, museums, labs, etc.  

And, yeah, always be polite and professional.  Really, showing an interest and 
being polite are qualities that will impress whoever it is that will grant you 
access to a collection.  Overall, based on my experiences, most scientists are 
"nice" people and especially like helping amateurs and students that show a 
real interest in their subject area, whether it be fossils or astrophysics.  

Steve

P.S.: For all of you heading off to SVP, have a nice time.  I wish I could be 
joining you...



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Steve Brusatte-DINO LAND PALEONTOLOGY
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