Educator Handbook: Resource Library
Falls of the Ohio Resource Library
The resource library at the Falls of the Ohio State Park was created in 1994 to serve three functions:
Staff research and study Preserve publications relevant to the Falls of the Ohio Public research and study
Objectives of the library
Staff-related
• To build a collection to meet the research needs of the park staff. • To provide staff with reference materials (written and non-written) for study, research in exhibit preparation and other educational activities. • To encourage the exchange of information between the Falls of the Ohio State Park and other similar institutions. • To collect and preserve rare publications and documents relevant to the Park's mission.
Community-related
• To serve the community as an information center in specific subject areas. • To permit interested and qualified persons, under appropriate supervision, to use the park's rare and valuable written resources in their research. • To encourage both scientific and lay communities to deepen their understanding of nature and local history, and to provide them with the tools to do so.
Focus of the library's holdings
The library contains books, periodicals, files, photographic images and videos. Topics include: • All aspects of the Falls of the Ohio • Aquariums (freshwater and marine) • Education and nature study • Fossils, especially of the Silurian, Devonian and Pleistocene • Geology of Indiana and Kentucky • History and lore: local, regional and river • Museum studies and collections conservation • Native American culture and history • Ornithology • Rivers • Wildlife, especially of rivers and wetlands
Hours and Accessibility
The library is open only on days staffed by volunteers or by advance arrangement. Some access may be limited by insufficient staffing or conflicts with the multi-use purpose of the room. Policy for library use
1. Materials may only be removed from the library by staff or with approval of the library manager.
2. Materials may be photocopied only with special arrangement. For most users, copying is not possible.
3. Items removed from book shelf will be returned by staff or volunteers, unless a place marker is used and the user removes one book at a time.
4. Items noted as "rare" are only available to qualified scholars involved in bonafide scientific or historical research. Arrangements for access to rare publications must be made in advance with Alan Goldstein (library manager) or Steve Knowles (property manager).
5. Users must pay building admission unless granted an exemption by park staff.
6. Food, drink, gum and smoking are not permitted in the library or elsewhere in the Interpretive Center.
The Leonard C. Brecher Ornithology Collection
Leonard C. Brecher was an avid Falls area bird watcher and collector of ornithological books and periodicals. Donated by his daughter, this collection is one of the most unique in the region. The oldest book is The Ornithology of Francis Willoughby, published in 1678. There are five first addition volumes of John James Audubon, 10 of Alexander Wilson's and many other notable 19th century publications. Many 20th century volumes are available for casual reading on our main shelves, while the older publications are in a storage room and available for research. Most of his field notes are housed in the library as well. Click here for the inventory.
Seeking additional library donations
The Interpretive Center resource library is looking for material to fill gaps in our collections. These include books, publications, photographs and videos that relate to the focus areas described above. Donations are tax deductible. Inquire to Alan Goldstein at (812) 280-9970.
viii. Created January 22, 2010 |
