of Indiana University is home to a large number of audio, video, and film collections that are historically significant and carry enduring research value. The 2009 Media Preservation Survey has determined that IUB holds more than 560,000 audio and video recordings and reels (or cores) of motion picture film.

Most of the recordings in IUB collections are analog, many are unique, and none reside on permanent carriers. All analog recording formats deteriorate over time, some quickly and catastrophically. Obsolescence of playback machines, technical expertise, tools, and formats--combined with deterioration of carriers-- represent interacting challenges that impede the race against time to preserve important holdings. Many archivists believe that one of our generation's primary responsibilities is to digitize these holdings for long-term preservation and increased access before it is too late.

To begin addressing this challenge, the Office of the Vice Provost for Research funded a preservation survey in 2008-09 of audio, video, and film collections at IUB. The survey data was collected by Patrick Feaster, IU Ph.D in folklore and an expert on early sound recordings, with guidance from the survey task force.

The resulting report was authored by Mike Casey, the associate director of recording services at the Archives of Traditional Music.

Download the complete survey report here.