As the fascinating array of data begin to flow from IPY projects and investigators, we must recognize the intellectual effort data providers invest in collecting and preparing IPY data sets.

The IPY Data Policy requires that “users of IPY data must formally acknowledge data authors (contributors) and sources. Where possible, this acknowledgment should take the form of a formal citation, such as when citing a book or journal article.” The IPY Data and Information Service has published new guidelines to help data managers and users develop appropriate citations for data sets.

Preserve or perish,

-m.