Digitization of indigenous materials : problems and solutions in the Context of Kerala University
R. Raman Nair · E-LIS Repository (University of Naples Federico II) · 2006
The paper evaluates the ICT infrastructure available at Kerala University (KU) in India. KU has automated its library system and has powerful ICT infrastructures for more than a decade. But they are found to be lacking information relevant to KU, which exist only in traditional media at various sources under it. Information generated by the research in KU is also not digitized and added to the system. The study reveals that archives, libraries and other document collections as they exist now in KU limit mainly to collection, preservation and services using original exhibits, printed documents, manuscripts and non?print materials like microforms. Even a decade after having required ICT infrastructures KU has not cared to digitise its content and make it accessible online. Identifies the institutions under KU where unique content not otherwise available exists and the different media in which they are recorded. Various projects that have transformed content like that existing in KU are examined. The solutions used in such projects are discussed. The problem of local scripts to be dealt by KU and the projects, which handled scripts relevant to KU, are examined. Make suggestions in selecting relevant DL solutions and for ensuring the conservation of the unique knowledge content available at KU.