Preserving Voices, Preserving History: Auditory Heritage at the National Library of Iran

Abstract

Objective: The preservation of auditory heritage is vital to safeguarding cultural identity and ensuring historical continuity. This paper highlights the National Library and Archives of Iran’s (NLAI) achievements in digitally preserving and retrieving audio materials, including rare oral histories, traditional music, and historic radio programs. Methodology: A descriptive-analytical method was used, based on document analysis, NLAI institutional reports, and observations of current projects. Key Findings: NLAI has implemented advanced digitization and metadata workflows. Artificial intelligence is applied to clean and enrich archival content, and cloud-based infrastructure ensures secure and sustainable access. Despite challenges such as limited budgets, outdated formats, and media deterioration, NLAI stands out as a regional leader in audio archiving. Conclusion: NLAI’s digital preservation efforts help ensure the longevity of Iran’s sonic heritage and align with global best practices. These initiatives highlight the evolving cultural role of libraries in the digital age and offer a valuable model for similar institutions across the region. Keywords: Auditory information, National Library, Information retrieval