Digging up publicity

Wang says the book in progress, "a comprehensive and complete record", will be one of the workshop's first achievements.

Wang also hopes the press and its international publishing partners will make Chinese archaeological titles more visible and influential globally.

Another book the workshop is doing is about national treasures."It will be an easy-reading photo album covering volumes on jade, copper, ceramic wares and more,"Guo says.

Zhao mentions Chinese archaeological studies are trending toward meticulous, refined and diversified development. It begins to merge with multiple sciences, and stresses excavating as well as protection, with considerations on exhibition being included in advance.

Liu Guoxiang, with the Institute of Archaeology, says contemporary archaeological research is closely related to the source of Chinese civilization and how Chinese people see their roots and culture.

Liu adds that there are about 160,000 people nationwide involved in museums and the cultural relic sector, among which about 7,000 are archaeological professionals working onsite. The archaeology reports they publish on average have a print run of 1,500 to 2,000 copies, and the audience is limited because it's not easy for general readers to get through the reports.

"So it's important to maintain publishing of the formal reports, while trying some innovative ways of making them and other research findings more accessible and fun to a broader readership," Liu says.

He suggests digital three-dimensional images of the relics unearthed. Even a senior archaeologist like Liu, doesn't have access to some of the items needed in research. The digital images would be of great help.

Liu, who oversees some of China Central Television's archaeology-themed popular programs, knows the attraction of multimedia presentations. He also hints the possibility of publishing the multimedia products for the workshop under the press.

"Books and e-publications are handy in promoting the public awareness and knowledge in archaeology, now that interest regarding archaeology is rising," he adds.