Enduring Access to Special Collections: Challenges and Opportunities for Large-Scale Digitization Initiatives

Abstract

As we explore the evolving information landscape and institutional context of rare and manuscript collections, one of the critical matters is to consider the implications of large-scale digitization initiatives (LSDIs) for our programs. Although most LSDI efforts thus far have focused on general collections, it is inevitable that the attention will soon be turned to special collections. With the current networked information environment and increasing reliance on digital content subscriptions, rare and manuscript collections increasingly define the uniqueness and character of individual research libraries. The goal of this article is to characterize current LSDIs and discuss the potential implications for . . .