Digital Heritage, Local Connections, and Library Collections

McGuire, Morgan

Farkas, M. (2016, May).  Our Digital Heritage. American Libraries, 28.

            Creating Library Connections through Digital Heritage

I recently came across and interesting article in the latest issue of American Libraries.  The article written by Meredith Farkas, entitled “Our Digital Heritage” discusses the value of local heritage and the libraries role in preserving community history.  The author states that many patrons and community members have a rich ties to their local communities and would be willing to share this heritage with local libraries.  In an effort emphasize connection development, some libraries are offering free digitization of photographs and memorabilia in an effort to get patrons evolved with local history and preservation.

Many multi-functional copy machines have scanning and digitizing options.  Low cost hand held scanners are also an available option for public libraries.  For an relatively low investment, libraries can offer to scan and digitize photographs, letters, newspapers, and community information which can become part of a “digitized local history” either online or ready for display in the library.  This is an active way to get patrons into the library and connected with community. 

Bringing local history on line or into the library is a project that goes beyond regional areas.  “In many states and regions, libraries and other organizations have banded together to form digital public library services hubs to consolidate collections from diverse organizations in their area”.  Following the lead of the Digital Public Library of America, smaller libraries can contribute diverse digital collections that add to the cultural heritage of local areas, states, or the entire country.  This is a super example of creating strong collections through strong connections.