New large-scale scanner preserves WSU archive

 

PULLMAN, Wash. – A new piece of technology at Washington State University is helping to preserve the past.

The Zeutschel Omniscan 14000 AO large-format scanner allows WSU Libraries’ Manuscripts, Archives and Special Collections to replicate thousands of historical documents, including oversized books, newspapers and maps.

“The possibilities for preserving and creating unique digital collections from WSU’s holdings are now unlimited,” said Anna Wheatley, assistant director of development for WSU Libraries. “This remarkable equipment allows us to share WSU’s BIG ideas with the world.”

What makes the scanner extra special is the dedication of the WSU Libraries Council, a board of passionate library supporters, who made its purchase possible. It took two years of fundraising, and more than 80 donors, to collect the $125,000 needed, Wheatley said.

Mark O’English, university archivist, said the scanner is critical because many documents are seeing the wear of time. He said original WSU Pullman campus blueprints, for example, have mold damage from years of improper storage. Once copies are scanned, originals can be stored so mold doesn’t contaminate other fragile collections.

In addition to preserving history, O’English said the scanner will allow people to see the WSU Archives in a whole new way – via the Internet.

“To be able to put this stuff online and to be able to do it quickly is just a wonderful thing,” he said.

To learn more about the scanner, see http://www.zeutschel.com/products/color_scanner_os14000_a0.html