Becoming the “MacGyver” of your Archives: There’s So Much History to Discover on Obsolete Media Formats

Obsolete media formats contain an untapped goldmine of valuable history just waiting to be discovered and transferred to accessible formats. However, preparing to digitize obsolete media in your collections may seem like a daunting task, especially given the scarcity of resources that many archives and museums encounter. Figuring out how and where to start can seem impossible.

Join Austin Schulz to discuss common questions in digitization of obsolete media and the unique challenges that require some “MacGyvering” to unlock artifacts’ valuable history and expand accessibility through digital preservation. Austin has served as the Archivist for the Idaho National Laboratory for the past four years. Prior to that, he spent 11 years as a Reference Archivist for the Oregon State Archives. He brings extensive experience with digital archiving and making obsolete media material accessible.

This event is part of the Registrars Committee Western Region’s 2023 (virtual) dive into the worlds of specialty collections. Every museum has something a bit bizarre, but sometimes a main component of your collection or mission makes you think outside the box. Are your collections alive? Do you drive your artifacts? Or has your museum studies degree put you in charge of explosive safety for over 100 torpedoes? Let’s learn how different institutions are acquiring, cataloging, and managing these collections; you might learn something to bring back to your institution, or be more grateful for what you collect!

This event was sponsored by Art Work FAS – thank you for your support!