----------------------------Original message----------------------------
 
I thought this might be of interest to maps-l readers. It was sent to me by our
conservation laboratory chief here at NYPL. Alice Hudson.  If you guys respond,
do so via maps-l, and share your insights with the rest of us who are dithering
with imaging also...thanks in advance, from an eager learner.
 
______________________________ Forward Header __________________________________
      : Remote Access to Cartographic Records
      :  mreeves at central1
    :    7/27/95 5:30 PM
 
 
---------------------- Information from the mail header -----------------------
      :       Archives & Archivists <[log in to unmask]>
      :       Margaret Hutchison <[log in to unmask]>
       :      Remote Access to Cartographic Records
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
The British Columbia Archives and Records Service (BCARS),
Ministry of Government Services, Province of British Columbia,
is investigating the feasibility of providing access to cartographic
holdings through its remote access system.
 
A pilot project has been established to begin to:
 
 -  identify technical issues surrounding capture, conversion, storage of
    digital images of cartographic records.
 -  investigate strategies for linking related textual information
 -  explore the means by which remote access can practically be provided
 -  assess the degree to which such a service would be useful to clients.
 
Clearly a  number of approaches are possible, ranging from very small low
resolution images to massive 300 megabyte image files that would capture
most if not all of the detail on a map.  In this case, an attempt has been made
to provide moderate detail, in a manner that is practical for a remote viewing
and use.
 
The project includes examples of maps in digital form, a map orientation
guide to BCARS' holdings, catalogue card entries and finding aids to
cartographic records series, as well as technical notes.
 
This information resource is accessible on BCARS WWW server at the following
URL:
 
        http://www.bcars.gs.gov.bc.ca/cartogr/general/maps.html
 
Note: this page is not currently linked to the BCARS home page.
 
Prior to formal public access being announced on August 1, 1995, feedback on
the
pilot project is requested from members of the two archival Listserv's.
Comments may
be provided using the on-line feedback form, or addressed via email to:
 
        [log in to unmask]
 
Development and coordination of the BCARS Remote Access System is the
responsibility of the BCARS Remote Access Team (BRAT).  Comments
and/or inquiries can also be sent to any member of our team:
 
       Margaret Hutchison             [log in to unmask]
       Lynne Tibbitt                  [log in to unmask]
       Brant Bady                     [log in to unmask]
 
 
BCARS Remote Access System is accessible through gopher and
the World Wide Web at:
 
Via Gopher:     gopher.bcars.gs.gov.bc.ca 70
Via WWW         http://www.bcars.gs.gov.bc.ca/bcars.html
 
 
 
Margaret M. Hutchison
Archivist, Client Services Section
BC Archives and Records Service
telephone:  604-356-0697
FAX: 604-387-5841
e-mail:  [log in to unmask]