Paleoenvironmental and behavioral studies help us understand the significance of what we find. Unfortunately, this information is getting more difficult to find. Because of the increasing scarcity of funds, many libraries have reduced the scope of, or eliminated their paleontological sections. Similarly, many institutions have cut back on their staffing. Loss of access to these expert resources greatly increases the difficulty of non-professionals' research and personal growth.
Most paleontologists begin their interest with a fascination for fossils and field collecting.
As their knowledge grows, interest shifts toward paleontologic study and developing a deeper understanding of the meaning of fossils. The opportunity to interact face to face with professionals provides direction and an entry point to the resources of the professional community. Ideally, personal relationships lead to identification of new finds and opportunities for collaboration. One way to accomplish this is to advertise professional meetings and welcome the non-professional to such meetings. Another way is by offering the non-professional the opportunity to be junior author of a paper.