Course Summary

Goal

This seminar will provide a wide variety of information on optical disks and magnetic tapes and disks that will assist in planning for the preservation of these media.

Description

Comparisons between modern and traditional information carriers and analogue and digital records will be made. The structure of materials such as components that make up the media, types of media, formats, and uses will be examined. Longevity, deterioration problems, and remedies for damaged media as well as disaster recovery will be addressed through lecture forums, guided discussions, and video. Storage and handling considerations including existing standards, handling procedures, labeling of CDs, winding of tapes, environmental storage conditions, and cleaning procedures will also be covered. Participants will have an opportunity to handle and examine different sample types and deteriorated samples.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• understand this relatively new media in key subject areas
• develop useful and effective preservation strategies for their collections

Target Audience

Curators, collections managers, conservators, and other personnel responsible for the preservation of these modern information carriers

AttendanceMaximum 20 participants

Duration 3 days

Special Requirements

VCR and TV as well as access to a computer with CD-ROM audio capability.

Instructor(s) Joe Iraci and Stefan Michalski