Description: As an intern with the Smithsonian Institution Archives, I developed strategies that would make our born-digital collections more accessible to the researcher and enhance discoverability.
Description: Memorable animated gifs for the directionally-challenged! [via Atlas Obscura]Can't wait for Spring 2019 to see the next GoT? A neural network has written the first chapter. [via Motherboard]The history of toys that have enduring popularity (think Slinky and time will tell on the fidget spinner). [via Inc.]The British Library is considering a single digital portal. [via
Description: Link Love: a weekly post with links to interesting videos and stories about archival issues, technology and culture, and Washington D.C. and American history.
Description: How Transcription Center themes open connections for Smithsonian Archives' collections that create relatedness, unveil stories, and ask new questions.
Description: We’re taking a glimpse into the work and life of Margaret Sordahl and other women at Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory stations around the world.
Description: A salamander, the axolotl, found in Mexico that once numbered in the 6000s/square kilometer is now down to 35. [via Scientific American]As we know, the Biodiversity Heritage Library has a lot of gorgeous images of natural specimen, in fact over 2 million of them, and it includes some from the Archives! [via Open Culture]Beatles fans, John Lennon's stolen diary was recovered by
Description: The Stanford David Rumsey Map Collection now has over 69,000 historic maps available online. [via KQED]Incredible color photos of Martin Luther King, some of which are part of our National Museum of African American History and Culture. [via NPR]Great news for geneologists! The Digital Public Library of America & FamilySearch International have signed an agreement that will
Description: As a teenager, Robert Ridgway was tapped by the Smithsonian’s Assistant Secretary to be an expedition zoologist. In 1881, when the US National Museum opened its doors, he was the curator of Birds. Download and reuse some of bird illustrations today through Smithsonian Open Access.
Description: In December 1978, Gloria Steinem met with the Smithsonian Institution Women’s Council (SIWC) to advise the group on carrying out the work of change at the Smithsonian and to broaden members’ understanding of the women’s movement. As described by attendees, the conversation was “dynamite…great…wonderful.” One member expressed her surprise at finding Steinem so agreeable;