----------------------------Original message----------------------------
This is being posted to Maps-L and ASIS-L, apologies for cross-postings.
 
Yesterday I attended a presentation by F.D. Lewis, a program director in the
Computer, Information Science, Engineering (CISE) Directorate of the National
Science Foundtaion (NSF).  VERY well done.
 
Two growing areas of funding are the National Information Infrastructure
(NII) and the development of Digital Libraries.  NSF suggests that
particularly  the NII will get more interest once the Health Care program is
more settled.  I assume the NII will generate support for Networking and NREN
programs in the NSF.
 
Another statement of particular interest to women and minorities was made.
By the year 2000, CISE goals include 50,000 BS degrees and 2000 PhDs awarded
annually to minorities in all areas of the sciences.  They also expect 45%
of the CS grads by the year 2000 to be women.  To encourage achievement of
these goals, within two years proposals must demonstrate proper
representation within the people working on the projects.  Without proper
representation from women and minority groups, funding will be denied or
cut.  NSF offers no solution to the problem of getting women into the
sciences, the solution lies with us.  But the commitment to these goals
is extremely firm.
 
Following the presentation, I asked Dr. Lewis if, for the Digital Libraries
proposal reviews, consideration would be based on expecting that results
would encourage and allow access to the information in these developed
digital libraries by the average library user.  He said he certainly
hoped so.
 
One final request, and possibly the most important thing said by Dr. Lewis,
was the plea for more proposals.  Some parts of the NSF budgeting
considerations are based on proposal pressure.  The more proposals which
come into an area, the more likely the budget for that area will be
increased.  It may also help to increase the NSF total budget, so more money
to one area does not necessarily mean less money to another.
 
SO, to get information on doing proposals (how to, how not to), on special
programs for women or minorities or undergrads, or on setting up education
and training programs, you can ask this of the National Science Foundation.
One e-mail address is [log in to unmask]
 
Dr. Lewis' address is [log in to unmask]
 
If you have an opportunity to attend a program on the workings of the NSF,
take advantage of it and GO.  Women, minorities, this is our time.  Take
advantage of it and help others take advantage of it.
 
 
Debra Lords
[log in to unmask]
Marriott Library
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah  84112