Why Media Preservation Can't Wait: The Gathering Storm

This presentation explores the time-based media preservation problem, detailing how the forces of degradation along with rapidly advancing obsolescence issues taken together result in a short time window in which to digitally preserve audio, video and film collections. Using a fairytale as a framework, it introduces a character named Degralescence that embodies the major forces that threaten to undermine media preservation efforts. It also proposes a timeframe within which action must be taken to avoid losing the opportunity to affordably preserve large holdings of media recordings. Using the Indiana University collections and the work of the IU Media Digitization and Preservation Initiative as examples, it explores strategies for addressing this impending and inconvenient crisis. Finally, the presentation highlights international progress with an overview of key projects and resources.