----------------------------Original message---------------------------- I received e-mail from Poh Chan asking questions about building a background in GIS. I cannot answer the questions but feel that they are ones deserving address. I asked Poh Chan if I could post the questions to let those of you who are wiser than I answer them and permission was granted. I believe the questions are relevant to the larger issue to which I was responding -- as librarians and libraries are unable/unwilling (no judgement intended) to provide services which the users need, others begin offering these services. What can librarians do to reduce further erosion of our domain and to begin rebuilding our involvement and credibility in these areas? The DuPont Circle demonstrates some answers. This is also related to Linda Zellmer's question -- should librarians be expected to do this? And let me add -- when their income is so low that the cost of additional education, which will not increase that income, is not a minor consideration. Thank you, Poh Chan, for your questions. I urge that you post your answers to the list so anyone interested can benefit. Thank you. Debbie Lords [log in to unmask] Marriott Library University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT 84112 Debbie, After reading your e-mail, I decided it's best to write to you directly for advice. We do not have such technology in my map library now. If I were to go on study leave to upgrade myself and acquire this training, can you advise the type of courses one should take. Are there courses that teach this new map librarianship, and where? Or does one go specifically for GIS courses? Or is it more useful to go on practicum at a map library that has this new technology? Which are these libraries? Or should one go for a combination of a GIS course and practicum? Any info would be appreciated for I've been asked to give serious thought to this matter. I need to find out where to start. Many thanks. Poh Chan e-mail: [log in to unmask] Map Collection Simon Fraser University Library Burnaby, B.C. Canada V5A 1S6