Digital Preservation
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl prɪˈzɜrvəʃən/
The process of maintaining long-term accessibility and integrity of digital materials through systematic planning, technology maintenance, and format migration strategies. Digital preservation ensures that digital resources remain usable, authentic, and accessible across technological changes and time.
Plain English
Ensuring digital materials stay accessible and readable for many years despite technology changes.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Libraries implement digital preservation strategies to protect institutional repositories from technological obsolescence."
Style guide notes: Distinguish 'digital preservation' (proactive) from 'backup' (reactive storage); use both terms when discussing comprehensive strategies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is digital preservation challenging?
Technologies become obsolete, file formats change, storage media degrade, and costs accumulate over decades.
What preservation strategies do libraries use?
Format migration, emulation, redundant storage systems, metadata documentation, and regular integrity checks.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Essential for evaluating expertise in digital asset management, institutional repositories, and long-term information stewardship.
Required skill level: Senior