This booklet is published by the Yellowstone Library and Museum Association, a non-profit distributing organization whose purpose is the stimulation of interest in the educational and inspirational aspects of Yellowstone's history and natural history. The Association cooperates with and is recognized by the United States Department of the Interior and its Bureau, the National Park Service, as an essential operating organization. It is primarily sponsed and operated by the Naturalist Division in Yellowstone National Park.

As one means of accomplishing its aims the Association has published a series of reasonably priced booklets which are available for purchase by mail throughout the year or at the museum information desks in the park during the summer.