Abstract: A cover slip material and a method of making and using the same are provided. The material comprises (a) a light transmissible polymeric backing having first and second surfaces; (b) a tack free bonding layer disposed on the first surface of the backing, the bonding layer comprising polymers selected from the group consisting of acrylate, methacrylate, and combinations thereof; and (c) a protective coating disposed on the second surface of the backing. Upon exposure to an environmentally friendly activating solvent such as terpene, d-limonene, esters of coconut oil and aliphatic hydrocarbon blends, the bonding layer acquires tacky properties causing the cover slip to adhere to a specimen previously mounted on a microscope slide.