Digitization:

A method of preserving
library resources

By
Edgardo Quiros
The National Library
What is Digitization?
Digitalization is another term
Digital conversion is also used
alternatively
Scanning refers to digitization of
documents using scanners
It is the conversion of analog
information into digital formats
or 0s and 1s.
Methods
Encoding
Scanner
Digital camera
Digital video camera
Digital audio recorders
Analog device converters with
software digital capture
What can be digitized?
Paper-based information including
text, graphics, pictures, maps, and
photographs
Audio materials
Video materials
Moving pictures or Films
Microforms
Art objects including other 3-D
objects
Digitization in
preservation
Capture the current state of the
materials
The captured state in digital format
is not affected by elements
Using digital copies instead of
originals helps eliminate wear and
tear
Theft of original is virtually
eliminated
Digitization in
preservation
Copies of analog copying
deteriorates per copy
Constant analog copying of the
original increases the speed of
materials deterioration
Reproduction is the better
option
Digitization in
preservation
Copies of digital copying does
not loss it quality
No need to copy the original
No need for reproduction
Indirect benefits
Originals can be located in secure
place
Originals can be moved into an
archival facility
Digital copies can be delivered via
Internet
No need for staff/s in check-in or
check-out of documents
No need for frequent inventory
Indirect benefits
Copies can be made in minutes
with less effort from staff.
Time savings can be diverted
into care and maintenance of
originals
Problems in digitization
Improper digitization process is
a source of natural deterioration
and damage
Improper use of equipment and
facilities can cause more
damage than natural elements
Digitization without clear goals
is at risk of failure
Problems in digitization
Poor output of digitization is not due
to digitization but due to incomplete
appreciation of digitization process
Cost of digitization increases when
work efficiency is low
Quality is determined by the
intentions or goals of digitization
Cautionaries
Avoid consulting IT persons and
salepersons who does not have solid
background in digitization.
When dealing with commercial
organization, check the qualifications
of their technical personnel
Digitization is not the expertise of IT
professional
- FIN! -