Choosing which library materials to digitize? Learn how to prioritize for your digital collection expansion with these key strategies.

When expanding a digital library collection and transitioning from printed materials, prioritize high-demand and frequently borrowed items to ensure continued access, while also focusing on materials in poor physical condition to prevent further deterioration. Emphasize rare or unique works that aren’t easily replaceable, especially those relevant to the library’s core subjects, ensuring that foundational texts are included. Consider the copyright status, prioritizing public domain works or those with digitization rights, and solicit patron feedback to align the collection with user needs.

Last updated on Jul 20, 2024

You're expanding your digital collection. How do you choose which physical materials to prioritize?

As libraries modernize, expanding digital collections becomes essential. However, deciding which physical materials to digitize first can be challenging. It's important to balance current user needs with preserving the library's unique contributions. You'll need to consider several factors, including usage patterns, the physical condition of materials, and the potential for increased accessibility. By carefully selecting items that will provide the most value in a digital format, you can ensure your library remains a vital resource in the digital age.

1 Usage Trends

When prioritizing physical materials for digital expansion, it's crucial to analyze usage trends. Look at which items are checked out frequently and consider their digital availability. Popular books that are often wait-listed might benefit from digitization, allowing multiple patrons to access them simultaneously. Similarly, materials that support current educational or research needs should be high on your list. By focusing on user demand, you ensure that your digital collection meets the immediate needs of your community.

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Wyne Cler

Content Manager
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Great question. I was always told that I couldn’t predict the future. And if I listened to the haters… Yes I can’t predict the future but I well damn well tell the future about it self. My kids, are the future and we have been waiting for them to shine like superstars ✨✨✨

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Lesley Farmer
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AI's list is a good start. The obvious thing is to map the physical collection by subject matter and use (including by whom) - and to match that with the current digital one. And use that map to align with the institution's mission and users, noting possible recent changes and strategic plans/trends ahead. What niches can physical items have that digital sources can't compete with? (e.g., pop-up books, handmade books and zines, grey literature, Braille, non-English materials that are unlikely to be online). Be sensitive to format/mediums that do not translate well into digital.

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2 Condition Check

The physical condition of library materials is a key factor in prioritization. Items that are fragile, deteriorating, or out-of-print are prime candidates for digitization. This not only helps preserve their content for future generations but also minimizes handling of the original copies. By digitizing materials that can't withstand much more physical use, you protect them from further damage while maintaining their availability to patrons.

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Callum Carr - Marquis

Head of Archives at University of Michigan-Flint
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Absolutely paramount is saving photos and documents in danger of disappearing forever. It isn't perfect, but digitization is the highest form of preservation we have including multiple back ups, and access copy jpegs

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3 Access Enhancements

Expanding your digital collection provides an opportunity to enhance access for patrons with disabilities. Prioritize materials that, once digitized, can be equipped with assistive technologies like text-to-speech or adjustable text sizes. By doing so, you make your library more inclusive and ensure that all members of your community can benefit from the resources you offer.

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4 Unique Holdings

Consider the uniqueness of items in your collection. Materials that are rare, part of special collections, or hold local historical significance are excellent choices for digitization. They often cannot be found elsewhere, and digitizing them makes these valuable resources accessible to a wider audience. This also positions your library as a custodian of cultural heritage, offering unique content that patrons can't get from other sources.

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5 Collaboration Potential

Look for opportunities to collaborate with other institutions when expanding your digital collection. Materials that complement the collections of nearby libraries, academic institutions, or cultural organizations can be digitized in partnership, sharing costs and resources. This not only strengthens community ties but also promotes a more diverse and comprehensive digital library network.

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6 Future Proofing

Lastly, consider the future-proofing of your collection. As technology evolves, so do the formats and platforms for digital content. Prioritize materials that can be converted into formats with longevity in mind, ensuring they remain accessible as technology changes. This strategic foresight will help safeguard your digital collection's relevance and usability in the long term.

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Jaswinder Pal Singh

University Librarian at Chitkara University, Punjab
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When expanding a digital library collection and transitioning from printed materials, prioritize high-demand and frequently borrowed items to ensure continued access, while also focusing on materials in poor physical condition to prevent further deterioration. Emphasize rare or unique works that aren’t easily replaceable, especially those relevant to the library’s core subjects, ensuring that foundational texts are included. Consider the copyright status, prioritizing public domain works or those with digitization rights, and solicit patron feedback to align the collection with user needs.

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You're expanding your digital collection. How do you choose which physical materials to prioritize?

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2

3

4

5

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1 Usage Trends

2 Condition Check

3 Access Enhancements

4 Unique Holdings

5 Collaboration Potential

6 Future Proofing

Library Services

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You're expanding your digital collection. How do you choose which physical materials to prioritize?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Usage Trends

2 Condition Check

3 Access Enhancements

4 Unique Holdings

5 Collaboration Potential

6 Future Proofing

Library Services

Rate this article

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