For centuries, biological specimens have made key insights in the life sciences possible. Now, new technologies—from chemical and genetic sampling that help us better understand migration and evolution to vivid audio/video recordings that capture animal behavior in the wild—are making specimen collections more valuable than ever before. A family-friendly, interactive multi-media exhibit in the Mann Library Gallery highlights the diversity of specimens at the Cornell University Museum of Vertebrates and The Macaulay Library of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. It also highlights the many ways that Cornell students contribute to the growth and use of these fascinating and important collections.

In conjunction with this exhibit Cornell Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Mike Webster will be presenting the lecture "Sound and Feather: How Media Specimens Are Revolutionizing Modern Ornithology," as part of Cornell University Library's Reunion programming on Friday, 9 June, 10:00 am (Stern Seminar Room, Rm 160, Mann Library). A reception in the Mann Gallery will follow Dr. Webster's talk. 

This exhibit is a collaboration between Mann Library, The Lab of Ornithology's Macaulay Library, and the Cornell University Museum of Vertebrates.  Funding for the installation of this exhibit in the Mann Gallery is provided by the Bondareff Family Fund for Mann Library.

Through spring 2018 Mann Library's exhibit programming is dedicated to the theme of scientific expeditions and fieldwork. Stay in touch with our exhibit news at mannlib.cornell.edu and come join us in discovery!