Mark Eversole, Senior Laboratory Technician, selecting well core to be processed.	Ray Daniel, Research Analyist, preparing samples to be processed.

The samples are returned to the library, where they are identified, boxed, and temporarily stored. Footage interval and total depth are recorded and added to a computerized master list. The samples are then assigned a library call number and are washed and dried in a machine designed by library personnel. The machine has the capacity to wash 500 to 800 feet of samples per hour. Labels bearing the interval and call number of each individual sample are produced and placed on cards, which are inserted along with the sample into a 3-by-5-inch, water-resistant, plastic, zip-top envelope. The envelopes are arranged in numerical order and placed into boxes that are 3.5 inches wide by 6.5 inches deep by 24 inches long, labeled with the well's data and a numerically sequenced box number, and shelved on pallet racking.

Well sample washing.	Well samples set up to be processed.

Processed samples being inspected.	Well samples being boxed.

Companies or individuals generally donate cores, but they may also be obtained from research projects. Library personnel usually retrieve them from the field, although a company will on occasion deliver them to the facility. Upon arrival, cores are identified and the interval, number of boxes, total depth, and the overall condition of the core is noted. Damaged boxes are repaired or replaced. Cores arriving in wooden crates are placed into cardboard boxes. Permanent call numbers are assigned, labels are generated, and box numbers are given to each box, and the cores are shelved on pallet racking. The cores and samples are then made available for inspection by researchers from industry, government, academic institutions, and the general professional community. Space and facilities are provided in the library for examination of these materials.

Well samples stored on pallet racking in warehouse.