IASA-BAAC 2026 Conference

Name: Technological Resilience and Preservation Refresh Measures in Handling Obsolete Audio-Visual Collections "Silent Archives": The Case of Unisa Library Archives
Start: 2026-10-22T15:30:00+0300
End: 2026-10-22T16:00:00+0300

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Technological Resilience and Preservation Refresh Measures in Handling Obsolete Audio-Visual Collections "Silent Archives": The Case of Unisa Library Archives

Thursday October 22, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm EEST

Education hall: Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania

Audio-visual material kept by the Unisa Library is an important part of heritage and history of various cultures, recording oral traditions, traditional melodies, and events, which were recorded using non-textual media only. A significant portion of audio-visual archives have been rendered obsolete due to quick evolution of formats, degradation of physical medium, out-of-date methods of reproduction, and lack of means for maintenance.

In this article, we explore technical obstacles in handling and conserving audio-visual materials that became obsolete and outline measures aimed at preserving and revitalising such collections to restore their utility. Using case of the Unisa Library Archives, the study considers the state of deterioration, the problem of obsolescent file formats, and necessity of developing preservation refresh strategy involving digitisation and migration.

Specific measures outlined in this study include implementing sustainable processes of digitisation with acquisition of proper playback hardware, software, and related infrastructure, setting up check-summing routines and integrity controls, developing metadata system to guarantee provenance, and employing hybrid on-site and off-site storage facilities. It also includes seeking financial support from heritage sponsors, establishing cooperation to share resources, and developing an audio-visual collection preservation policy including regular refreshing cycles.

In addition, implementing measures of preservation refresh and digitisation will lead to increased technological resilience and will allow addressing the challenge of obsolescence and ensuring access in case of possible disruptions. This study gives practical examples for archivists who want to implement a successful preservation refresh strategy.

Speakers

Lufuno Kgamedi

Archivist, University of South Africa - Library

Ms. Lufuno Kgamedi, an Archivist with sixteen years of experience, began her career in 2009 at the National Archives of South Africa, where she developed her expertise and passion for preserving archival records. In 2013, she joined the University of South Africa (Unisa) Library (Archives... Read More →

Thursday October 22, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm EEST
Education hall: Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania

Short Presentation, In Person

Zoom link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81977024051
Zoom password 867213

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IASA-BAAC 2026 Conference

Lufuno Kgamedi

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IASA-BAAC 2026 Conference

Lufuno Kgamedi

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