Library of Congress and Columbia University agree to develop geospatial data-preservation clearinghouse

"Digital maps, satellite images and other forms of geospatial data are critically important for responding to disasters, protecting the environment and a host of other matters. But much of this information is in danger of being lost, because of evolving technology and other threats. The Library of Congress and Columbia University have announced an agreement to create a web-based clearinghouse of information about best practices for preserving significant geospatial data. The Library's National Digital Information Infrastructure and Preservation Program (NDIIPP) will fund development of the clearinghouse at the Center for International Earth Science Information Network (CIESIN) at Columbia's Earth Institute. CIESIN will launch a beta version of the clearinghouse later this year"