Digital Curation

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Survey of the Digital Collections of New Jersey’s National Parks
(2023-12-16) Crystal Swancey
National Parks in New Jersey preserve unique historical events about the start of the United States while sharing stories of war, natural wonders, and innovative inventions. Living in the digital age encourages the parks to discover new avenues to promote the park and its collections digitally. This paper intends to examine the procedures, styles, accessibility, and future needs of the National Parks in New Jersey (NPNJ) by examining their current digital collections. Website reviews of the nine NPNJs were completed to determine the availability of their online digital collection, a broad survey of park employees was conducted, and final interviews were conducted with a few employees to understand the unique demands of the parks concerning their digital collections. This paper gathers the current state of the digital collections at the parks and uncovers potential obstacles that limit access to the collections. In the end, this paper provides recommendations based on the common obstacles found at the nine NPNJs sampled for future improvement in management, expansion, and access to the park's wide variety of digital collections for future park visitors and researchers.
What’s in a Name? Digital Repatriation Across Disciplines
(2023-12-16) Jessica Bloodgood
As the role of museums have changed, as well as the cultures that founded them, former morals have come into question. Any institution whose collections include Native material acquired by unethical means must now determine the best way to return this material back to the source community, physically or digitally. The term "digital repatriation” is itself contentious due to its connotations with physical repatriation, sole ownership of artifacts and, in the U.S., return of grave goods and ancestor remains. The confusion and preliminary distrust this creates necessitates a closer look at the term and its proposed alternatives to find something that more accurately describes this process in a succinct way. Through a meta-analysis of the available literature and a series of interviews with professionals working in this growing area, this paper illuminates the current state of understanding of digital repatriation across the fields as well as gaps where further study is needed, particularly on post-repatriation processes, in order to assist in the establishment of guidance to promote future success in these endeavors for all parties.
Institutional Repository Use of Vendor-Based Solutions Relating to Technical Knowledge and Digital Curation
(2023-05) Fender O’Brien, Mary
Institutional repositories (IRs) are digital collections that curate and disseminate the intellectual output of an institution. They play a significant role in the open access movement and in providing access to research and scholarly outputs. Vendor-based systems (VBSs) are a popular option for managing IRs. VBSs offer a number of advantages, including scalability, security, and support. However, they are expensive and require a high degree of technical knowledge for staff to extend the IR collections into digital preservation workflows. This paper examines the impact of VBSs on digital curation and preservation in IRs. The paper begins by providing an overview of IRs and VBSs. It then discusses the benefits and drawbacks of VBSs relating to the executable connectivity for digital curation and preservation by digital librarians. Finally, the paper presents the results of a survey that gauged current technical knowledge and other aspects of those working in the librarian roles of digital curation/preservation, asset management, and institutional repository management of scholarly digital assets. The analysis of the survey suggests several factors that inhibit IRs from utilizing VBSs to their fullest for digital curation and preservation. Overall, a VBS is a valuable tool for digital curation and preservation in IRs if gaps in technical knowledge, increased resources, and stakeholder support are improved.
University Archives
(2022-12) Batcheller, Katie
How do university digital archives play a role in the parent institutions' impact on their student body? Through a review of literature and case studies, as well as first-hand research in the form of interviews with six university archivists from across the United States, this paper gathers current data on analytics and interdepartmental communications that elucidate the impact and role of digital archives for the parent institution. By uncovering what is or is not working, the popularity levels of its analog counterparts, as well as specifically how the digital archives are being utilized, a clearer picture is painted on the holistic success that is a university's digital archive. All parent institutions have primarily institution-specific digital assets and less-so alternative research material needed for academic success. Additionally, with the awareness of digital preservation standards and workflows involving different archival toolkits, there is still a lack of user surveys regarding how effective the digital archive is for the target audience. More information and research is needed as to why parent institutions are not concerned with polling their target audience as to the effectiveness of the digital archives.
Biodiversity Data: Refinement of Technology and Implementation Methods
(2022-12) Diamond, Tim
Biodiversity data consists of taxonomic specimens and information that inform our interpretations of ecosystems and life on Earth. Museum projects, exhibitions, and research utilize biodiversity data to construct answers and educational programming for staff and visitors. Cleaning and maintaining biodiversity data, however, is a difficult challenge that involves moderation and refinement of data entry, inventory, workflows, and protocols. Creating an ideal framework that involves the utilization of technology and the management practices of data standards will help in developing baseline recommendations for institutions struggling to maintain their biodiversity collections. Surveys were sent to listservs and museum professionals to acquire interpretation and data surrounding biodiversity data practices. From survey results, three interviews/case studies were performed with one staff member, respectively, from the University of Wyoming Museum of Vertebrates, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. These interviews and surveys, in conjunction with a literature review, were conducted to explore processes and strategies currently being utilized to develop biodiversity data frameworks. Results indicate a strong desire for customizable and malleable databases that integrate institutional-level decision-making and preventative error protocols. In addition, thorough documentation and active engagement with staff and volunteers contribute to long-term benefits to data management standards.
Robotic Process Automation: Implementation in Private/Public Sectors and Opportunities for Cultural Heritage Organizations
(2021-12) Shukrallah, Rose
In the current race to master digital transformation and harness its potential in the workplace, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is gaining popularity among cognitive technologies as a robust and easy way to streamline certain repetitive processes. As automation strategy goes, RPA offers a solution to simplify business complexity by automating rule based and repetitive tasks without requiring major changes to existing hardware and systems’ architecture. A unique feature of RPA programing is that it does not require knowledge of coding. The RPA software uses graphical user interface (GUI) to capture keystrokes and mouse clicks to automate an entire workflow or just certain tasks within a bigger process. This paper presents how RPA is being implemented in different industries to broaden the general track to digital transformation and further the path of freeing employees from redundant and repetitive tasks in order to spend more time on high-value work that requires creativity and decision-making skills. While many businesses where the need for speedy solutions to deliver data and complete repetitive tasks have begun adopting RPA and using artificial intelligence integrated solutions, libraries, archives, and museums (LAMs) are still lagging in RPA implementation. To raise awareness and curiosity among LAMs about RPA technology, this research has relied predominantly on literature review from resources outside the LAM field to highlight how RPA is being implemented to augment the workforce in other fields to boost efficiency and develop employees to handle more complex decision-making tasks. Thus, improving productivity and, where external stakeholders are involved, client satisfaction.
what controlled vocabularies are commonly used to create metadata and specifically looking at and thinking about controlled vocabularies that expand the language museums can use to identify, catalog, and provide access to materials that are related to LGBTQIA+ (queer) history and experiences
(2022-01) Megan, Molly
I have been thinking about what controlled vocabularies are commonly used to create metadata and specifically looking at and thinking about controlled vocabularies that expand the language museums can use to identify, catalog, and provide access to materials that are related to LGBTQIA+ (queer) history and experiences. Newer controlled vocabularies can be used to supplement more well-known established controlled vocabularies. Implementing more niche or specialized controlled vocabularies will help to reduce or mitigate bias in metadata, while also serving end-users looking for specific information. This topic will also explore how institutions approach implementation of specialized controlled vocabularies, by examining how institutions that have collections focused on queer history and institutions that have more generalized non-specific collections that have pieces linked to queer history approach this topic.
Persistent Identifiers and Sharing of Digital Information About Scientific Specimens
(2021-12-18) Carr, Cynthia
Using persistent identifiers (PIDs) in digital data production and sharing concerning scientific specimens promotes an overarching goal, to allow for creation of relationships. The assignment of unique PIDs is an essential step for enabling findability and accessibility of digital data using the FAIR data model. Implementation of the digital extended specimen links the digital object record with associated and derived specimen parts and research data. Linking to atomized information such as collection event, collector, locality, collection, institutions, taxon (identification), people involved in analyzing and processing the specimen, other related specimens, and many other subsamples and derived and related data can be accomplished with a system incorporating numerous types of unique persistent ids. These many IDs need to be maintained by organizations to prevent broken links and provide redirects for older identifiers. While community development of best practice is influenced by experts in digital data architecture, it must incorporate challenges based on the history of data sharing concerning scientific specimens. The development of identifier systems and normalization around digital object structure and vocabulary needs to accommodate the needs of managers of diverse collections. Most providers are working with a collection management system and with limitations based on past decisions and limited time and finances, so data sharing practices should address these issues to encourage compliance. This paper will use a combination of reviews of the literature and of several interviews with workers in the field to explore community collaboration, persistent ids, and increased mobilization of shared data.
Do Mission Statements Support Digital Preservation? An Examination of Mission Statements and Digital Preservation Among the Museums of the Division of Arkansas Heritage
(2023-05-08) Cohen, Sarah
This paper seeks to explore if museum mission statements support the inclusion of digital preservation. The research was conducted with the museums of the Division of Arkansas Heritage, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. Data was collected via an anonymous survey using Microsoft Forms, open-ended interviews, and analysis of the mission statements of Delta Cultural Center, Historic Arkansas Museum, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, Old State House Museum, the Division of Arkansas Heritage, and Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. Overall, the researcher concluded that at face value, the text of mission statements does not support or include digital preservation. However, if following the assumption that digital preservation is a subset of preservation, mission statements support digital preservation via this relationship. Nonetheless, more research is needed to determine the extent of the relationship between mission statements and digital preservation and if the assumption that digital preservation is a subset of preservation holds true to the majority of the museum field.
Organic Search Engine Optimization for Museum Websites in 2023: Strategies for Improved Online Visibility and Access
(2023-05-03) Rivera, Allison
Foremost, this research attempts to uncover the state of the art of organic search engine optimization (SEO) in 2023 as it relates to museums in the United States. It looks at the challenges that museums face with search engine optimization and how data aggregators like Google Arts & Culture and the Digital Public Library of America fit into the online organic visibility of collection metadata. Finally, the research identifies the most common content management systems and online collections solutions that art museums are using and their websites’ technical optimization. The paper draws conclusions based on a literature review as well as technical audits and manual reviews of 214 art museum websites. The research is intended to serve as an orientation for museums evaluating their online strategies in 2023 and as a starting point to help inform museums’ own research into the SEO-friendliness of popular content and online collections solutions. It concludes with recommendations to help museums realize common missed opportunities in organic search engine optimization.
Operationalizing the United States Department of the Air Force Digital Archives
(2022-12) Horton, Rebekah
Abstract This paper analyzes the current state of digital curation within the United States Air Force History and Museums Program and evaluates the lifecycle of Air Force digital records. The scope of this evaluation includes information from existing literature, in-the-field personnel, and named experts to generate an independently understandable archival needs assessment. The paper supplies numerous synopses of American and international digital archive models and standards to create a baseline understanding of the benefits of digital curation. In contrast, the research generates several Air Force case files highlighting the need for standardization and training across the force. The study delivers a controlled and measurable appraisal of the current state of digital asset management and information packaging employed by the Air Force. The analysis concludes by recommending the courses of action the Air Force History and Museums Program must implement to operationalize and connect the global network of United States Air Force digital archives.
Digital Asset Management Systems in Museums: An Implementation History and Study
(2021-08) Michael, Amanda Jean
Digital asset management and its systems (DAMs) have been a revolving topic in the museum industry for a few decades, including best implementation practices and how to find systems that connect with the needs of the museum field. Decades of research and a current survey of museum professional respondents working with digital asset management systems uncover issues that have and continue to plague the use of these systems in the field: most notably interconnectivity issues, outdated systems, and a general lack of focus in the development of those systems on the unique needs of museums that need in order to implement a DAMs successfully. The results of this study illustrate that museums are still searching for a DAMs that will answer their questions and tackle the digital asset management issues they seek to solve. Until accessible museum-specific systems are created, the same issues will keep museums from taking full advantage of their digital assets and media to support their missions.
Field Notes: An Exploration of Crowdsourcing Platforms for Natural History Collections
(2021-08) Cohen, Lauren Rachel
Drawing from a long tradition of public participation and recent innovations in digital technology, natural history museums (NHMs) are transforming the way they conduct research and engage their audience. Digitization is unlocking a wealth of biodiversity data and expanding the use of natural history collections (NHCs) across the globe. Online citizen-science crowdsourcing is imploring the aid of a massive network of amateur-experts to assist with the transcription of historical records which cannot be completed by computers. Crowdsourcing platforms such as Zooniverse, DigiVol, and the Smithsonian Transcription Center are attracting a new generation of citizen-scientists and increasing the rate NHMs are able to generate and process biodiversity data. This symbiotic relationship is leading to digitized collections becoming more accessible to researchers and advancing our understanding of anthropogenic changes taking place today; expanding the user’s appreciation of science by allowing them to actively participate in the discovery process; and resulting in high-quality data for peer-reviewed publications. This research project will explore citizen-science crowdsourcing from its rich history through current use; pinpointing the best online platforms to aid with natural history collection transcription; while also revealing the benefits and concerns associated with amateur-expert powered projects.
Educating Library, Archives, and Museum Professionals in the US: Promoting Collaboration, Recognizing the Power of Information and Object in Professional Identity
(2021-03) Ray, Joyce; Botticelli, Peter
Two digital curation educators, representing graduate schools of museum studies and information science at Johns Hopkins University and Simmons University, respectively, propose that the field of digital curation transcends disciplinary boundaries and offers opportunities for collaboration across the LAM sector. As students prepare to join the growing international digital curation community, these new professionals will be ready to communicate and cooperate with peers in libraries, archives and museums across the globe and across town. The result will be enhanced access to cultural heritage resources; greater efficiencies and economies of scale realized through wider data services; and improved service to users through the adoption of shared standards, protocols, and professional training—while at the same time maintaining the unique perspectives of each profession. Placement data shows that these graduates are finding jobs across the LAM spectrum, even in the time of Covid-19.
Linked Data and Linked Open Data Projects for Libraries, Archives and Museums: Constructing Pathways to Information Discovery and Cultural Heritage Sector Collaboration
(2020-12) Paquet, Anna P.
This paper examines current Cultural Heritage-based Linked data and linked open data projects developed by Libraries, Archives and Museums (LAMs). The following research questions are explored: R1: Are there similarities and/or differences between libraries, archives and museums in how their linked data and linked open data projects, approaches and strategies are being implemented? R2: What specific linked data and linked open data tools and tactics are being employed, and are there key variations between libraries, archives and museums? The linked data/linked open data landscape has advanced since Tim Berners-Lee (et al.) introduced the concept of the Semantic Web, but challenges for LAMs remain as they work with their collections’ data to create new web-based projects. Fundamental to these efforts is the creation, linking, and publishing of good quality metadata that will allow LAM collections to be discovered, accessed, and disseminated through viable methods. Trends across LAM sectors for linked data and linked open data projects include: global communication and collaborative research, use of wiki-based technologies, and efforts to improve sustainability. Application concepts from the Digital Curation Centre’s Curation Lifecycle Model and Adrian Brown’s Digital Preservation Maturity Model may help guide LAMs toward greater sustainability of linked data and linked open data collections’ projects. Keywords:
"Reject Perfection": The Impact of User Studies on Born-Digital Collections Access in Libraries, Archives, and Museums (LAMs)
(2020-12) Rockwell, Julie
Within the last five years, innovative technologies, standards, and resources have advanced borndigital access scholarship and practices in libraries, archives, and museums (LAMs). An emerging archival theory of practice, Participatory Archival Research and Development (PAR&D) frames an optimal practitioner participatory research environment needed to continue these advancements, especially for conducting essential born-digital access user studies in collecting institutions. The Digital Library Federation (DLF) Born-Digital Access Working Group (BDAWG) provides an inclusive, academic space to which ‘Reject Perfection’ is the first core value. Library and archive professionals have embraced this philosophical paradigm, incorporating user experience assessments into born-digital access workflows to understand and improve user experiences. Have these studies improved access practices and user experiences? Are there barriers to access that the studies identify? This paper investigates four user studies conducted between 2015-2020 to benchmark the current born-digital collections access landscape through both practitioner and researcher user experiences. Ten LAM professionals, who participated in open-ended interviews, assist in recommending improvements to access and provide strategies for creating a cultural mindset that values user studies. Through shared communities of practice and cross-disciplinary collaborations, especially with museums, the commitment to LAM convergence will actively steward the scholarship needed to develop and sustain ‘best’ or ‘good enough’ born-digital access practices and implementation of user studies.
Digital Practices and Strategies of Western United States Museums during the COVID-19 Pandemic
(2020-12) Whitecar, Nathalia
The COVID-19 pandemic forced museums globally to shut their doors, yet many continued to extend content and resources through virtual means. This paper highlights some of the efforts of museums in the Western United States as they have pivoted digitally through educational resources, digital programming, virtual exhibit tours, and enhanced collections access. Further discussion of five museums of different institutional types provide a deeper look into the policies, strategies, and pre-existing practices that aided in the quick turnaround from physical to digital. As many museums were pressed for time in content development and its release, this paper concludes with recommendations for policies and procedures that will help prepare museums for a successful virtual future.
Collecting and Preserving Time-Based Media Art in Georgia’s Museums
(2019-08) Hatch, Emma
Time-based media art (TBMA), art that utilizes technology and has a distinct beginning and end (video, film, slides, audio, or computer-based) is a popular medium among artists. The preservation of TBMA presents a unique set of challenges for museums, because TBMA relies on ever-changing technological components that can become obsolete if not properly cared for. For this paper, staff members from art museums in Georgia were interviewed to determine the current state of the collection of TBMA across Georgia’s museums, including reasons given for not collecting TBMA and relevant preservation methods. The research focuses on a specific state, Georgia, so that relationships between art museums in a common geographical region can be studied, focusing on common goals and initiatives concerning TBMA. The paper concludes with a section offering recommendations for resources that could be beneficial to museums that have not started acquiring TBMA, and also discusses ways that museums in Georgia can work together in finding solutions to issues regarding the collection and preservation of TBMA.
Death in the Digital Age: An Heirs and Users Guide to Digital Assets and Posthumous Rights
(2018-09) Palmer, Stephanie G.
In the digital age, social media platforms and digital accounts contain a variety of digital assets that hold personal or monetary value. When a user dies, their heirs must take into account the number of legal issues they could face in order to gain access to a user’s digital assets. This research paper provides heirs and users resources and tools to assess digital assets, navigate potential legal issues, and implement methods for long-term preservation. Analyzing legal publications and case studies to evaluate the current legal environment and find answers to common questions about ownership and inheritance rights to digital assets hosted by third parties. What are the types of digital assets that exist on these social media and digital accounts? What are the legal issues involved with obtaining the rights to access a deceased user’s digital assets? What planning is necessary to ensure heirs continued access to these types of digital assets? How can the principles of digital preservation be applied to promote the long-term preservation of these digital assets?
Fashioning Bygone Fashions: Creating Digital Sewing Patterns from Historic Garments
(2019-12) Scott, Sonia A.
This paper explores options for creating digital sewing patterns from garments in historical costume collections. Such patterns provide independent scholars and the general public greater access to study historically accurate reproductions, sewing techniques, and the evolution of garment history. Three garments dating to the first half of the 19th century are examined studied and a open-source patterning solution is used to create sewing patterns of the aforementioned garments. A concise history of the creation and acquisition of these garments is included This exploration focuses on the resource conscious creation and use of digital sewing patterns to further the study and use of historic garments so as to appeal to small or individual collections, as well as to more well funded institutions.

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