Some of the digital images found on Columbia's LibraryWeb are available in the specialized MrSID format which requires the use of a third-party browser plug-in to view.  Please see the links at left for download sites and instructions.

MrSID is an acronym for "Multi-Resolution Seamless Image Database." It is a powerful wavelet-based image file format designed specifically for imaging & GIS professionals to enable true portability of massive images. MrSID enables instantaneous viewing and manipulation of imagery both locally and over networks while without sacrificing image quality. Features include unprecedented compression ratios; true multiple resolutions, selective decompression, seamless mosaicking, and browsing.

LizardTech distributes a number of MrSID viewers that are free. You can download them from the LizardTech website at www.lizardtech.com . The ability to view MrSID files has also been integrated into most of the leading GIS software products available so you don't need plug-ins or extensions. Some of the vendors include ESRI, Smallworld, Autodesk, Intergraph, ERDAS, MapInfo, etc.