Emilio Segre Visual Archives http://photos.aip.org/index.jsp

The Emilio Segre Visual Archives is part of the Niels Bohr Library at the American Institute of Physics and has greater than 25,000 visual digital objects.

Selection procedure: The Emilio Segre Visual Archives material is chosen to primarily represent twentieth century American astronomers and physicists, but many European and other foreign scientists are present in the Archives as well.

Object Characteristics: The fonds of the Emilio Segre Visual Archives comprises engravings, photographs, lithographs and slides that deal with the subjects enumerated above in selection procedure. Many photos can be ordered as 5 x 7, 8 x 10, 11 x 14, or 16 x 20 prints with glossy or matte finishes for between $19.00 and $52.00. A 300 dpi scan of most images may also be procured for $10.00. When searched for, objects first appear in a thumbnail size and can then be enlarged by clicking on the image itself or on the more information link.

Metadata: Each thumbnail image has a catalog number, a listing of of the scientist(s) in the photo, the date, and the more information link. When a photo is enlarged the description becomes more complete, indicating in one case that the theme of 1924 Brussels physics conference was the electrical conductivity of metals. Furthermore, the more detailed description tells who is in each row of the group of scientists in the conference photograph from left to right. On this page is also found the the links to purchase different sized prints or a scan of the photo. Other helpful metadata include a page detailing how the image of Albert Einstien may be used (it can only be used in non-commercial methods because his image and persona are covered under celebrity rights secured by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem). A Frequently Asked Question section exists to help users understand how the ordering, purchasing and archives service fees for orders are managed. In addition, a donation page is present to inform potential donors about what the Emilio Segre Visual Archives seeks and how best to effect the transfer of such material to the Archives.

Intended Audience: Obviously, the astronomers and physicists of America and their families or friends are the most likely audience for the collection. Nevertheless, the metadata accompanying the objects aids in their use by the general public. People can do quick searches by whichever keywords they choose or they can search to find formal or informal portrait or group photos. Such search options make the collection more friendly to navigate for non-physics buffs who are more interested in science and history in general.

I have always loved science so physics and astronomy and their stars (no pun intended) are a huge draw for me. However, I think the Emilio Segre Visual Archives does a good job of making the sometimes confusing or difficult subjects of physics and astronomy more accessible by bringing the disciplines down to the personal level of the scientists who aided in their creation.