The mission of sound archives in a post-analogue context

Abstract

Operating in the post-analogue context has significant implications for archives and institutions. This paper addresses the challenges and opportunities related to the role and function of sound archives as the environment in which they operate becomes increasingly digital, networked and user-based, and their mission to support a myriad of users to utilise collections to learn, experience and create evolves. The paper uses case studies from the Sound of the Netherlands, the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia and Europeana Sounds to illustrate how digitisation matters, not only from a heritage and preservation perspective, but also because smart, connected and open collections provide value in many respects.