Annotated references to monographs and serial articles provide ideas and examples of how other libraries have conducted successful educational programs. Also included are a selection of videos recommended for use during presentations on topics ranging from disaster preparedness to security, and care and handling of library materials. The video programs can be borrowed from Preservation Field Services. Into the Future explores the hidden crisis of preservation in the digital age. Strong testimony from scientists, archivists, writers, academics and computer scientists underline the severity of this problem.
Digital information requires active preservation measures.
The potential loss information in digital form is wide ranging affecting areas such as science, government, publishing and the computer industry. The film does show that digital technology is being employed by libraries in the US and abroad to create solutions to preservation problems as well. Scanning projects that reduce handling of fragile original documents provide access through the Internet to a worldwide audience. However, Deanna Marcum, Director of the Commission Library and Information Resources cautions librarians against draining resources from traditional preservation activities like microfilming and conservation treatment for digital access projects. It is available in a 60 and 30 minute version.