Preserving an emerging digital arts landscape: digital preservation at University of the Arts London

Digital technologies are affecting all aspects of modern life, with both art and libraries becoming more digital. This presents new opportunities for engagement, but also creates significant challenges to the long term future of our collections, due to the rapid changes in technology and the threat of digital obsolescence.

This article will reflect on the ongoing work at the University of the Arts London (UAL) to preserve and provide access to the university’s growing digital collections. Digital preservation is an emerging area of practice. What progress have we made so far and what does the future hold for our digital collections?