What kinds of digital material are of interest to the Library?
The Bodleian Library has long collected the archives of organisations. Much of these materials are now created and maintained in digital form. It is the content of the material, rather than its format, which is of interest.
What kinds of digital archives does the Library collect?
Our holdings include the archives of institutions and organisations, including businesses, political organisations, and other interest groups. The materials we collect are of long-term research value, typically created during the normal course of the organisation's activities. Archives can include email, word-processed documents, still images, digital sound, digital video and much more besides.
Can the Library deal with older digital records?
It depends. The Library is able to handle a variety of older digital media, and many file formats which were used in the 1980s and 1990s. If you can tell us something about the software applications you have used to create your digital material, this is always a great help.
How should I prepare my material?
This is something we would like to discuss with you, prior to transfer. In most cases we prefer that you do not rearrange your material, or convert it to other formats.
How will I transfer material to the Library?
We would like to discuss this with you. There are a number of options available, but we need to know more about your material to make the right decision. If you are transferring archive materials from an organisation, it may be useful to involve your Records Manager or IT Manager.
How long will the Library preserve digital material?
We aim to preserve your material in perpetuity.
Does the Bodleian continue to collect archives in paper format?
Yes, although we are seeing a reduction in the amount of paper in modern organisational archives in particular.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
Susan Thomas, Digital Archivist – susan.thomas@bodleian.ox.ac.uk
