Cataloging The Richard M. Nixon Nature Center Collections and Archives

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to catalog the collections and archives of the Richard M. Nixon Nature Center. The Nature Center does not currently have a collections and archives catalog. There is no current inventory of the collections as well, therefore, a complete inventory will be conducted for further accuracy. Very little paperwork is available for many of the collections and most items have not been accessioned. With the help of the Nature Center staff, original paperwork, research, and the inventory, the catalog will present current and accurate information on each collection housed at the Nature Center. The primary sources to be used will include, but not be limited to, naturalists on staff, original collections records, and previous inventory records. Available for use for this project was also the original records for the development of the Richard Nixon Park and the Nature Center. Secondary sources will include nature books, such as Kenn Kaufman’s Field Guide to Birds of North America. Newspaper articles pertaining to the Nature Center, including donors, will also be used as secondary sources. Further secondary sources will include books and journals on the importance of environmental education in early childhood and beyond. The comprehensive collections and archives catalog will benefit many different aspects of the Nature Center’s mission. The catalog will help with research, program planning, events planning, budgeting, and more. With a comprehensive catalog the Nature Center can expand their educational programs and exhibits by incorporating items that were previously unavailable. The catalog will also align the Nature Center with the American Alliance of Museum’s Code of Ethics for Museums and Collections Professionals. This catalog will continue to be updated as needed.