There has been debate here internally on this matter as we look to expand
our web site.  There is some concern over the harvesting of e-mail
addresses and spamming.  There is also some concern over tremendously
increasing the volume of public inquiries and the staff's inability to
accomodate them.

It has been suggested the we should utilize a central e-mail address for
all inquiries instead of individual, personal staff addresses.  Some have
also suggested that we *not* include staff names, titles or phone numbers.

Personally, I see no threat or inconvenience in posting my name or title on
our web site.  As a public institution, I believe we should help the public
get the answers it needs from the people it needs to get them as
efficiently and painlessly as possible.

However, there is also a concern that any 6th grader with a computer or a
telephone can flood the system with inquiries the night before a test or
paper is due, etc.  And, being that we are not a research institution, we
are not setup to deal with such things...at least not on a regular basis.

We are somewhat divided here on this issue.  Perhaps I am too idealistic
but a wise colleague once advised me, "Remember that your credentials as a
curator don't mean very much to lots and lots of people.  Don't ever lord
them over anyone. Answer all queries from the public, no matter who they
may be with sincerity and good will.  Return all phone calls, emails...and
letters.  You can build up tremendous good will...this way."

Yet I suppose the real question at hand is how easy we make it for that
public to reach us.

Please weigh in.  Certainly thoughts on this matter vary from institution
to institution and it is a serious issue that directly impacts staff
resources.

Thank you for your time.  - Jeremy T. Chrabascz

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