Insights into the Cultivation and Sustainability of Academic Library Digitization Programs: Success Factors and Challenge Threats

Authors

Cory K. Lampert, University of Nevada, Las VegasFollow
Jason Vaughan, University of Nevada, Las VegasFollow

Meeting name

Association of College and Research Libraries National Meeting

Meeting location

Seattle, WA

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

3-14-2009

Abstract

Many academic libraries have invested time and resources into the creation of library digitization programs, and at this point in time there is a growing need to evaluate the impact and success of these efforts. What factors determine whether institutions achieve goals and experience long-term success or face challenges in staffing, funding, and strategic vision? This poster presents the results of a comprehensive survey administered to ARL (Association of Research Libraries) Library digitization managers to help provide a cross section of the current state of a diverse group of programs. Presented along with the survey results, the authors delve deep into the process undertaken at the UNLV Libraries to develop a strategic vision and decision-making structure to revitalize the library’s digitization unit and create increased buy-in from staff and partners. Such work entailed two reorganizations, various workshops presented to library staff, drafting of a comprehensive digitization white paper, and establishing an administrative structure to review and prioritize digitization project proposals. These two methods of investigation are presented side-by side to reflect patterns and point to several factors that contribute to success and sustainability of digitization efforts in academic libraries.

Keywords

Academic libraries; Digital preservation; Library materials--Digitization; Library surveys; Project management

Disciplines

Archival Science | Cataloging and Metadata | Collection Development and Management | Library and Information Science

Comments

Presented at: Association of College and Research Libraries National Meeting, Seattle, WA

Attached file: 1 Handout

Repository Citation

Lampert, C. K., Vaughan, J. (2009, March). Insights into the Cultivation and Sustainability of Academic Library Digitization Programs: Success Factors and Challenge Threats. Presentation at Association of College and Research Libraries National Meeting, Seattle, WA.

Available at: https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/libfacpresentation/76