Massachusetts, Minnesota and Texas…Academic and Public…Cowboys, Patriots and Vikings…
Three very different states - all with strong DPLA service hubs. How are they succeeding in their respective environments and what can other prospective service hubs learn from their experiences? This presentation will describe three models, their methods, and lessons learned over the years of conducting digitization programs.
The University of North Texas Libraries (UNT Libraries) has for almost a decade directed a program called Rescuing Texas History Mini-Grant Program (RTH) with the goal of helping local and state-level cultural heritage institutions and private owners digitize their holdings. RTH has allowed UNT Libraries to develop mutually-beneficial relationships with regional organizations, preserve and provide access to at-risk historical items, and develop a sustainable model for large-scale digitization initiatives.
The Boston Public Library offers statewide digitization services in partnership with Digital Commonwealth. These services were initially funded through LSTA grants but have since been moved onto more stable state funding. As one of the initial service hubs, Digital Commonwealth has built its service plan on a very high-touch, personable, and customizable model for digital project design, imaging, and metadata production. With over 250 partners from 160 municipalities, Digital Commonwealth has developed a strong relationship with the cultural heritage community in Massachusetts which has resulted in a sustainable level of support and positive momentum for future growth.
