From U-matic to Digital: Preserving JIBC’s Video Curriculum History

For several years the Library has been working on digitizing more than 400 JIBC video productions and adding them to The Vault. Most were for curriculum support (and several have received awards), but we have also digitized convocations, class videos and promotional videos.

These videos were in older formats such as Umatic and BetaMax from as far back as the late 1970s when JIBC first started. This digitization project will help all JIBC divisions to preserve our history as videos disintegrate over time and will be unviewable after several years.

WHAT WERE THE MAIN GOALS OF THIS PROJECT?

To preserve institutional history. Videos were disintegrating. Some footage may still be useful.

HOW DOES THIS DEMONSTRATE INNOVATION?

This is a unique project in postsecondary libraries.

JIBC training videos are of excellent quality and have won several awards. They are also part of our curriculum history.

WHAT WERE THE PROBLEMS OR CHALLENGES YOU FACED WORKING ON THIS PROJECT?

This project took 8 years to complete as there was no extra funding for it. Criteria for the selection of titles needed to be developed. Fortunately Bob Walker was able to help with identifying JIBC-produced titles. Many of the videos had compromised quality. Before the videos were added to The Vault, a system of metadata fields was created. A system of access is in progress due to licensing issues.

LESSONS LEARNED

Don’t underestimate how long a project will take.

Collaboration is vital for project like this. We worked with Bob Walker (CTLI) as he was involved in many of the video projects, and also from many staff members with content expertise.

AUTHORING TOOL(S) USED

Islandora software via the BCELN Arca group for libraries and museums.

PROJECT LINK

https://jibc.arcabc.ca/

(To access the Archival Video Collection, please contact the Library)

About April Haddad

April Haddad is the Director of Library Services. She initiated this innovative digitization project several years ago, realizing the importance of providing digital access to JIBC archival videos and preserving institutional history. Access will be provided through The Vault, part of the provincial Arca collaborative initiative where the JIBC Library was a founding member, with April sitting on the advisory committee for several years. She is grateful to everyone who worked on this project including library staff, Bob Walker, and many other JIBC staff members!

About Crystal Yin

Crystal Yin is the Electronic Resources and Systems Librarian at the JIBC Library. She is also the liaison librarian for the School of Health, Community and Social Justice. She is responsible for managing the library’s electronic resources, systems and equipment. She also works closely with other JIBC departments to ensure that students and staff have the necessary educational technology to perform their studying and teaching activities. Crystal has recently been invited to join the Arca Advisory Committee, which provides guidance on digital repository development, implementation, and policy issues.