A digitization and multimedia project at Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut, USA

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to encourage other libraries to provide access to their own original content via the web. By way of case study, the process of identifying materials, scanning them and creating web access to original content will be explored.

Design/methodology/approach

To implement a book digitization project, three major things need to be present. The library must own material that was published prior to 1923, making them safely out of copyright in the USA; the library needs access to server space on the web and the library needs to own scanning equipment.

Findings

This project demonstrated that a library does not necessarily need to obtain grant funding to begin an effective and successful digitization program. It also revealed a few things that would improve the process and enhance the return on investment.

Originality/value

A library meeting, the criteria will be able to enjoy the considerable benefits of a digitization project which include favourable attention from researchers when access to original content is provided, and a greater selection of source materials for their institutional community.

Citation

Ballard, T. and Donnald, E. (2007), "A digitization and multimedia project at Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut, USA", New Library World, Vol. 108 No. 9/10, pp. 445-452. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074800710823971