Tales from the field: enhancing the discoverability of field notes and field specimens

Field specimens and field notes provide a rich source of data for researchers. In 2016, Deakin University Library implemented a project to make accessible an historic field specimen album by William Harvey and a set of field diaries by noted scientist, Edmund Gill. Such unique and unusual items created challenges for the digitisation process and also led us to explore a range of methods to enhance their discovery and promotion. This paper outlines the digitisation project, the use of metadata, digital exhibitions and social media to expose the digitised items and the collaboration required to successfully complete the project.