British Archaeology gets online catalogue
Posted on 15 September 1998
Using the latest computer technology, the ADS catalogue makes information about archaeology rapidly available to anyone with Internet access. For the first time ever, this online catalogue makes it possible to locate similar archaeology sites across the English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh borders. So if you've ever wanted to know where all the Roman sites are in Britain, you now have a place to begin your search.
The catalogue contains images of excavations and artefacts, maps of key sites and prehistoric landscapes, and virtual reality reconstructions of the past. It also contains key databases of artefacts and scientific data, and details of archaeological collections which are held by numerous different bodies, including local authorities and museums.
The online catalogue uses sophisticated technology based on a network of databases - all using different software and different computers - around the country and abroad. It is one of the first cultural heritage applications of the technology developed for exchanging information quickly and efficiently.
This is an important step forward for archaeology," said Richard Morris, Director of the Council for British Archaeology. "We have to recognise that digital resources about the past must last as long as the remains of that past."
Notes to editors:
- The launch of the Archaeology Data Service will be at the King's Manor, York from 12.30 to 2 pm on Tuesday 15 September 1998. Reporters and photographers are welcome.
- A special website, exclusively for journalists, is available at http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/press/. This press website offers more detailed background information about the ADS and its catalogue, along with the chance of sneak previews of datasets to be launched on 15 September.
- The Archaeology Data Service is one of five digital archives in the Arts and Humanities Data Service
- The Archaeology Data Service is housed in the Archaeology Department at the University of York and is managed by a consortium comprising university departments, museums, the Association of Local Government Archaeology Officers, the Council for British Archaeology, and the Royal Commissions for Ancient and Historical Monuments in England, Scotland and Wales.
- For further information please contact Alicia Wise, ADS Data Coordinator on 01904 433954, email info@ads.ahds.ac.uk or consult the website.