----------------------------Original message---------------------------- Kathryn & MAPS-L: I'm sure someone from USGS will answer this query as well but here are my comments: 1. Both are "products" of the USGS 2. The ESDD (Earth Science Data Directory) pre-dated GLIS (Global Land Information System) by many years. 3. ESDD "indexes" manual and automated systems and databases that relate in any way to earth science. Geology, soil, water, weather, climate, ... Books, maps, aerial photographs, ... Mr. C.R. Baskin (now retired) was most instrumental in the development of this database. This database can be accessed online if you establish a password etc. via USGS in Reston. You may also get paper printouts whic of course become dates immediately. For several years ESDD was available from OCLC on their Earth Science CDs which were seased and Silver Platter was supposed to pick up. They haven't yet. I spoke to them about this at the SLA Annual Conference in Cincinnati, OH - everyone should call them and ask about the atatus of their products. Besides ESDD the CDs conatined the holdings of the USGS main library in Reston (since ca. 1976) and the index to geologic maps (formerly from Kit Fuller). 4. The GLIS provides access primarily to satellite and remote sensing data and is maintained out of EROS in in Sioux Falls, SD. You again must have password. etc. but you must also have the software to operate the system. 5. They are both free to access (if you don't count the telephone line charges) The major difference between GLIS and ESDD as I see it is that GLIS is a database unto itself and can "point" you to data and information while ESDD "points" you to other data bases which you then must query to find the data and information - manual & automated. Different offices/different budgets. Some day I'm sure that we will see a merging og GLIS, ESDD, APSRS, MCIS, and any and all automated USGS information systems. Jim Minton [log in to unmask] 615-974-4315