Overwhelmed to Action: Digital Preservation Challenges at the Under-resourced Institution

Digital preservation advocates at small or mid-sized institutions struggle with the expectations of implementing a digital preservation program. Given that they operate with fewer resources than their larger colleagues, implementation can seem overwhelmingly difficult. With digital preservation a pressing issue, how do these libraries begin to tackle the challenge? Advocates at Milner Library have had the advantage of collaborating on the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grant, Preserving (Digital) Objects With Restricted Resources (POWRR). This case study examines how they have applied the lessons they have learned to go from being overwhelmed to taking action. Along the way, they have encountered several misconceptions and challenges. This paper reviews the misconceptions and suggests approaches to the challenges of digital preservation. Some of the challenges include: minimal funds, change fatigue, lack of training, lack of engagement, and difficulty in framing the argument for administrators. Milner Library digital preservation advocates have approached the task by seeking collaborations, raising awareness, and starting small. It is possible to start the cultural change that is required to implement a digital preservation program, even with restricted resources