Hotline Edition | Ask Emily

TL;DR

Emily answers questions about the library resources at the Field Museum and the importance of diversity in the workplace.

Transcript

Hey! We're in the library filming an Ask Emily video and this Ask Emily is really special because you guys called in and left us messages on our voicemail, so if you have a question for a future Ask Emily video call the hotline! It's supposed - the number will be right here. Yeah! Okay. Hi Emily! This is Alex Lundt in Massachusetts Yes! The Field d... Read More

Key Insights

• 📔 The Field Museum has a reference collection of specialized and rare books that are important for researchers and curators.
• 🛟 Rare books in the museum's collection serve as visual records of wildlife from different time periods.
• 💦 Creating a diverse work environment is crucial for fostering innovative ideas and collaborations.
• 👧 Girls can be encouraged to maintain an interest in STEM fields by providing specific groups and supportive environments.
• ❓ Amateurs enthusiasts can make valuable contributions to insect collections.
• 🌥️ The Smithsonian recently inherited a large collection of parasites.
• 🦒 Pronghorn antelopes are more closely related to giraffes than to other "antelopes."

Questions & Answers

Q: Do libraries at the Field Museum have specialized and rare books?

Yes, the Field Museum has a reference collection of highly specialized and rare books that researchers and curators can access.

Q: Are there visual records of wildlife in the museum's books?

Yes, some volumes in the rare book room contain illustrations that are the only visual record of wildlife from specific time periods.

Q: How can girls be encouraged to maintain an interest in STEM fields?

Providing specific groups and supportive environments for girls to explore their creativity can help maintain their interest in STEM fields and combat stereotypes.

Q: Can amateur enthusiasts contribute to insect collections?

Yes, many of the insects in the Field Museum's collection were collected by amateur enthusiasts. Anyone can start their own collection by observing insects in their backyard and keeping good notes.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Field Museum has a reference collection of specialized and rare books that are important for researchers and curators.

• The rare book room contains books that are hundreds of years old and serve as visual records of wildlife from different time periods.

• Online resources like the Biodiversity Heritage Library provide access to some of the museum's materials.