Nicole is the Manager of the Biodiversity Heritage Library Australia based at Museums Victoria. Using many illustrations from various field naturalists’ club’s newsletters that have been digitised and uploaded to this vast online Library, particularly Ballarat’s club newsletters, Nicole gave us an overview of how to navigate the Library and what information can be gleaned from researching natural history subjects, people, species, etc. Many SEANA-affiliated clubs already upload their newsletters and other biodiversity-related documents and she urged others to do likewise. Nicole works with Jack Eastaugh and volunteers to scan and upload all material that is submitted. This includes hard copies of books, magazines, leaflets and born-digital items fitting the natural history theme, some dating back hundreds of years. This year, Nicole was also appointed to the additional role of Communications Director for the global Biodiversity Heritage Library. The Smithsonian Institute of America has stopped funding/ hosting this project and other sponsors have had to be found. A worldwide committee was formed to ensure the future of this invaluable online resource. Short-term funding is available, but long-term sponsors are still being sought.
ABN 23 918 778 150
Incorporation No A0044963D