----------------------------Original message---------------------------- I'm envious of your windfall, but I'm also worried about the implications of the map collection computer lab you're creating. I wonder if its entirely appropriate for a map collection to have ArcInfo, Atlas GIS and other software that requires significant amounts of training. Who's going to show the patrons how to use the equipment? Does your chemistry library have a full scale lab so that patrons can do experiments? That said, I have a couple of comments and suggestions regarding your wants lists. Have you thought about buying any Mac hardware and software? There are many in the cartographic world, though I'm not one of them, who prefer Macs for mapping. If you're buying such sophisticated GIS equipment, shouldn't you buy a plotter? When you decide what software you purchase, you may also want to consider Idrisi, a relatively inexpensive but fairly widely used package produced at Clark University. You might also want to buy the MapExpert CD-ROM, a Window-based reworking of TIGER files that provides access to supposedly every street in the U.S. on a single disc. Despite my misgivings, I am impressed by your project. If I ever get around to pursuing a Ph.D. in geography, it will certainly make me seriously consider attending UGa. I'm posting this to the list because I think my questions might be of wider interest. Blake Gumprecht Telephone: (215) 204-3187 Documents Librarian Fax: (215) 204-5201 Paley Library (017-00) Internet: [log in to unmask] Temple University Bitnet: gumpbw@templevm Philadelphia, PA 19122