Geologists and Gray Literature

Abstract

Geoscientists use large quantities of gray literature in the form of national, state, and local publications from societies and government agencies; dissertations and theses, maps; field trip guidebooks; and newsletters. Gray literature provides unique information on local and regional geology, oil and gas, soil, ground water, and mineral resources and is often produced more rapidly than traditional sources. Problems of physical quality, access, bibliographic control, and acquisition arise from inadequate coverage in bibliographies and databases, producers' lack of knowledge and concern for user needs, poor service from vendors, and university library cataloging and interlibrary loan policies. Recent improvements achieved by the American Geological Institute, geological surveys, and professional societies are encouraging.