Citizen Science

December 1, 2016
It's a huge task for a single researcher to cover the vast areas and numerous observations needed for thorough scientific research, so bring on the citizen scientists. Thousands of children, adults, retired seniors, and even prisoners are enticed by the promise of discovery, camaraderie, and purpose. Cooper, the assistant director of a North Carolina Museum of Natural Science research lab, explores the history and contributions of volunteer scientists. Some are inspired by hobbies (weather buffs chart rainfall, birders keep checklists, butterfly lovers track Monarchs, amateur astronomers peer through telescope lenses). Others donate their computer downtime to help power huge research projects, swab their bellybuttons, or photograph predators. Some track sea turtles, document local pollution, or partner with AIDS researchers. Utilizing home computers and cell phones, these ardent citizen scientists play important roles. Their research often leads to advocating for local conservation and ecological programs as well as supplying much-needed data to a wide range of scientific studies. Cooper's technically detailed celebration of citizen science may well prompt readers to join the growing community.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)