DIGITAL PRESERVATION OF INFORMATION RESOURCES IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: PRINCIPLES, STRATEGIES AND METHODS

Abstract

Digital preservation aids academic libraries to store and keep information resources safe and secure for future purpose. It plays important roles by giving longevity to information resources. The purpose of this study is to identify the principles, strategies and methods of digital preservation in academic libraries. A literature-based approach was adopted for this work and after studying various literature, the paper depicts basic principles of digital preservation, identify various approaches and measures to be taken into consideration when choosing digital preservation strategy and also some basic techniques used to ensure the preservation of the digital resources. This paper also looks at methods, importance, and challenges in digital preservation. This study however, concludes that basic principles such as longevity, choice or selection, quality, integrity, and accessibility should be keep in mind when preserving digital contents; and suggests ways to overcome challenges of digital preservation as proper planning, execution and considering the types of content to be preserved, the format in which they will be stored, the tools and processes needed to ensure their longevity, budgeting and training of technologically competent staff to manage the resources properly, and that storage media should be observed, monitored, and refreshed on a regular basis so as to achieve solutions that can help to ensure long-term accessibility and usability of digital content.