I have a bit of an “I’ll just do it myself” attitude. Most of the time, if I have a question, I tend to just shrug, figuring that I can just look it up when I get home. I have never known a world without the Internet and the subsequent endless amounts of knowledge that you can get with little effort. I know how to research after all so finding what I need shouldn’t be that hard. I have found a large stumbling block in my usual method in that I cannot simply look the information up when I get home. I have often left archaeological sites overwhelmed by the information and desiring straightforward information about the sites I’ve visited, or at least online versions of the information at the sites. Further, I often get confused about concepts or practices on our own site, and I attempt to look up how archeaological sites’ work. However, there is little in-depth research or advice that is actually accessible. It is sad how much the information around many of Cyprus’s archeological sites are locked up in small, weathered signs on Cyprus, or behind $90 paywalls. There are two elements to note from this phenomenon: the inability of the layman to gain access to archaeological information, and the networking required for archeaological research. 

I have found in my daily life that many of my friends and family have absolutely no idea how archaeology works. I have had to answer many a question about how the dig functions and operations, what time period we are digging in, and, my personal favorite, where Cyprus even is. There is a broad lack of understanding for ancient history and archeaology, and it is likely particularly due to the lack of accurate information available to the layperson. One solution, if flawed, is the rise of podcasts that lean on experts to relay information in a clear and accessible way. This is not perfect as misinformation or sensationalized information can easily be spread with much done to correct this information. 

One positive I have found is that I have been forced to lean on others for their information and actually reach out to the archaeological community. This has forced me to ask questions and have conversations that I would normally avoid. Although I dislike how difficult, and often expensive, it is to find the information I need to satisfy my curiosity, it has forced me to reach out to other people and listen to their information and advice. I will forever proclaim, “No gatekeeping!” but not at the cost of the community.  

With love… of course :).

audrey