A Practical Approach to Digital Preservation Planning at a Mid-Sized Academic Library

Abstract

Like many mid-sized academic institutions, the Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library finds itself in need of assessment and consolidation of existing digital content management platforms as well as exploring options for long term preservation of digital assets. The AUC Woodruff Library has nearly ten years of experience developing digital services, programs, and collections that expand access to hidden primary-resource collections. Depending on the size, format, and complexity of the project, the library engages in both in-house digital conversion as well as outsourcing to vendors. In 2015 the library was the recipient of two grants that will result in significant expansion of its holdings of digitized audio and visual resources that require access and long term preservation.

As digital projects evolve into digital programs focusing on the mass digitization of entire collections, institutions are faced with ensuring long term accessibility to vast quantities of digital assets. Without increased staffing, institutions must engage in collaborative solutions and develop workflows that maximize efficiency. This presentation and paper addresses the practical approach one institution undertook to evaluate the digital content management and preservation landscape in order to inform rapid growth and expansion of its digital programs. The library formed three internal working groups; one to address content management system consolidation, one to plan for digital preservation, and a third to train staff on coding. The presentation will outline the process of beginning digital preservation planning including conducting an inventory of digital assets, evaluating digital content management and preservation systems, developing in-house technical skills, and formulating a digital preservation framework for the library that is realistic for a mid-sized institution and consistent with the Library’s overall strategic plan.