The first International Digital Preservation Day on 30th November 2017 will draw together individuals and institutions from across the world to celebrate the collections preserved, the access maintained and the understanding fostered by preserving digital materials.
Pervasive, changing and ubiquitous, digital technologies are a defining feature of our age. Digital materials are a core commodity for industry, commerce and government. They are fundamental for research, the law and medicine. The creative industries, cultural heritage and the media depend on reliable access to digital materials while families and friends extend and sustain their relationships through digital interactions.
Organised by the Digital Preservation Coalition (DPC) and supported by the Open Preservation Foundation, the ICPSR and other digital preservation networks, International Digital Preservation Day is open to participation across all sectors, from anyone interested in securing our digital legacy.
"We think International Digital Preservation Day is a fantastic opportunity to create a greater awareness of digital preservation and to celebrate all the great things we can do with data thanks to continual efforts to preserve it," explains Head of Advocacy and Communications for the DPC, Sarah Middleton. "Ultimately, we'd like that to translate into a wider understanding which permeates all aspects of society – business, policy making, and personal good practice."
International Digital Preservation Day aims to provide a window into the daily activities of those involved with or contemplating digital preservation. Data creators, curators and consumers from around the world will be invited to showcase their own ‘Digital Preservation Day’ through blog posts on the DPC website, tweets and instagrams using the hashtag #IDPD17. The DPC’s own contribution will be in the publication of new resources aimed to support public and institutional advocacy for digital preservation activities.
This activity is just one of the ways the Coalition raises awareness of the strategic, cultural and technological issues which make up the digital preservation challenge. The DPC also supports members through other advocacy activities, workforce development, capacity-building and partnership.; helping members to deliver resilient long-term access to digital content and services, and derive enduring value from their digital collections.
A detailed programme and more information about International Digital Preservation Day will be issued over the coming months. To get involved visit the International Digital Preservation Day page on the DPC website, follow the hashtag #IDPD17 on Twitter for updates or contact sarah [dot] middleton [at] dpconline [dot] org for more details.