Creation of Digital Library of Manuscripts at Shivaji University, India

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the digitization of rare materials in one Indian university.Design/methodology/approachThis paper highlights the digitization activities undertaken by Shivaji University Library to preserve rare materials. It attempts to calculate the costs incurred in the digitization process.FindingsThe paper finds that digitization is the solution for the preservation of, and access to, rare manuscripts.Practical implicationsThe paper provides the complete budget required for the digitization of manuscripts and also suggest best possible preservation and access strategy according to the local needs of the users.Originality/valueThe paper provides valuable insight into the development of digital libraries in India. It is useful for setting the infrastructure required for digitization and a guideline for preservation and access to the rare materials.