Advancing access to information and digital preservation: IFAP’s impact on digitizing documentary heritage

Documentary heritage, encompassing pieces from ancient manuscripts to digital files, forms the backbone of our cultural memory. However, due to the rapid digital transformation, the imminent risks from physical degradation, technological obsolescence and cultural erosion are threatening the integrity and accessibility of historical data worldwide.

IFAP has launched several initiatives in response to the urgent need for digital preservation, with the financial support from China. Three projects have been implemented in Jamaica, Libya and Sri Lanka during 2023 and 2024.

Oral history is one of the pillars of documentary cultural heritage. In Libya, IFAP organized 11 events including workshops and symposiums on Preservation, Access and Digitization of Audiovisual Documents. The initiative digitized over 5,000 audio recordings of history safeguarding Libya's cultural heritage.

In Sri Lanka, IFAP supported the digitization of national archive collections by acquiring a library management system for the National Museum and the University of Moratuwa. Six training workshops were also organized for building capacity of museum staff, university students, volunteers and data entry professionals to carry out digitalisation work. The project resulted in the successful digitisation of 19,500 bibliographic books and 2,000 Ola leaf manuscripts.

In Jamaica, IFAP supported ABENG 88.7 FM, the Voice of the Maroons, a Marron community radio station, to share Maroon history and Indigenous culture. The project included the development of the station's website, the implementation of a sustainability and content diversity plan, and a three-day media training programme for operations volunteers. In addition to strengthening the infrastructure, these approaches encouraged the engagement with Maroon community through live streaming programmes.

The IFAP-funded projects are testimonies of the crucial role of digital cooperation in the preservation of documentary heritage. 

Documentary heritage is intrinsically tied to the unique roots of different communities. By building the capacities of communities and improving infrastructure, IFAP has provided comprehensive and sustainable support for preserving cultural and documentary heritage. These efforts advanced the implementation of the IFAP Strategic Plan 2023-2029.