DataONE (Data Observation Network for Earth) is a searchable repository of environmental and climate data.  Provided one has the necessary software to open the files used to create the data, a researcher can access and use the data collected by another for their own research project.   DataONE respectfully asks that if a researcher uses data stored in DataONE for their research, they cite DataONE and the original collector of the data in publication. For a more in-depth description and history of DataONE, the author recommends reading DataONE: Data Observation Network for Earth- Preserving Data and Enabling Innovation in the Biological and Environmental Sciences by Michener et al., published in D-Lib Magazine (2011, 17:1/2.) Available at http://dlib.org/dlib/january11/michener/01michener.html.

DataONE can be searched by topic, data attribute, data files, member node, creator, year, identifier, taxon, or geographic location.  To begin searching the DataOne catalog, go to this address https://search.dataone.org/data (Figure 1).

The screen shows a small column on the far left with a search box, and filters by which results can be narrowed down.  The column in the middle initially lists all the datasets currently available in the repository: 821,001 (as of 05/15/2020). The map on the right, which can be hidden, is interactive.  The grid covers the entire globe, and the numbers represent the quantity of datasets available in that geographic square.  Clicking on any of the squares zooms in to that quadrant, which will show the datasets broken into another grid; clicking on the square in the new grid will zoom in even further, and continue until a single dataset location is displayed (Figure 2).

Clicking the title will redirect the user to the catalog record, which contains options to download or link to the metadata and data itself.  In order to access and manipulate the data, the researcher must use the software program that created the dataset.

The repository can be searched by keyword (Figure 4).  The map simultaneously changes to show the location of the datasets represented in the current search results.

There are several screencast tutorials available (https://www.dataone.org/screencast-tutorials ) to assist with searching and downloading data.

DataONE does more than just store a researcher’s data.  DataONE also provides resources, tips, and advice; and it helps educate the user about analyzing and storing data.  It provides step by step instructions, assistance, and tools for collecting and working with data during the research process, not just the curation of the data at the end of the project.   A researcher’s guide to DataONE  (https://www.dataone.org/researcher-guide) provides information and guidance for working with data and using DataONE.  Many of the entries contain links to webinars on the topics discussed.  It even provides documents on data management that can be referenced when creating a data management plan.

In short, DataONE is an excellent resource for environmental data, in addition to serving as a repository for environmental researchers in need of a data plan for grant funding.  It also provides tips, advice, and best practices for managing  and storing data throughout the  entire research process.

Meredith Ayers, Science Librarian, Northern Illinois University

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