Being creative in making your (special) collections available through innovative tools and technology

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Date
2023-04
Authors
Chen, Stephanie
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Abstract
This talk will highlight four ways University College Cork Library have creatively and innovatively used emerging technology and new digital tools and platforms to provide and enhance access to rare and unique items in the Library’s Special Collections. Items in Special Collections are normally restricted for use in the physical Special Collections and Archives’ spaces and during opening hours. Having alternative ways of viewing and interacting with material means anyone is able to access it from anywhere at any time. UCC Library staff and students collaborated to create (1) a virtual tour of Cork city based on historical newspaper advertisements, (2) various 3D models of objects including parchment fragments, (3) a colouring book published online, and (4) a digital exhibit on historical recipes with different visualisations. While the above projects use items from Special Collections, they serve as an example of what is possible. The technology and digital tools and platforms used are not limited to unique and distinctive collections but can be applied to all types of collections and material. The presentation will outline the benefits of trying new technology and tools, some of the challenges experienced, and provide recommendations on how all types of libraries can utilize technology and digital tools and platforms for outreach, engagement, and access. By engaging with emerging technologies and innovative digital tools and platforms, staff are inspired to develop their own skills, experiment, and be creative.
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Special Collections , Emerging technology , Digital tools and platforms , Access , Rare and unique items , Library collection
Citation
Chen, S. (2023) 'Being creative in making your (special) collections available through innovative tools and technology', LAI/CILIP Joint Annual Conference 2023: Libraries Making a Difference, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland, 26-27 April.
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© 2023, Stephanie Chen.