Experiences with a science hotline.

Scientific literacy of the population may be enhanced by outreach programs conducted by universities. One such program, the University of Kentucky Science Hotline, has been successful in attracting and answering many inquiries from students, teachers, and others. The authors describe the organization and management of this hotline. The operation is inexpensive and efficient, with 35 faculty and staff members in 21 departments responding to 515 calls during the first year of operation. Fifty-four outreach visits were arranged through the hotline. Other benefits have included a more positive public image of scientists and the creation of links between academic scientists and precollege teachers.