New life for archaeological collections /

Though collections-based research is not a new concept for archaeologists, Allen and Ford's edited volume breathes life into the discussions surrounding the curation and use of collections. The volume is organized in three parts, and the 17 essays are contributed by professors, government agency professionals, and cultural resource managers. The six essays in part 1,"New Accessibility for Archaeological Collections," explore sustainable strategies for making legacy and orphan collections accessible to researchers and the public. Part 2, "New Research for Archaeological Collections" (also six essays), focuses on the benefits and challenges of using research methods that emerge as a result of using and analyzing collections. Part 3, "New Futures for Archaeological Collections" (four essays), moves beyond research and presents possibilities for using collections as public outreach tools. The book's structure reinforces a future-oriented perspective that balances practicalities with the issues and ethical considerations that arise from implementing new strategies. Overall, this volume offers insights that researchers and professionals will find beneficial to their work. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, and professionals. --Brandon K. West, State University of New York at Geneseo