Increase the reach of your digital collection

As more students use the Internet as their first research source, the importance of online resources has increased. Libraries have to consider ways of getting their special collections online and, therefore, increasing access for users.

Librarians at the University of Leicester were looking for ways to get their local history and special collections online so that not only the students, but also people outside the academic institution could access them. They decided they needed a system that was cost effective, attractive and technically simple to use.

CONTENTdm^® provided the university with a digital collection management system through which they could upload all their collections as well as the collections of local historical organizations. "We worked with local organizations like the Leicester Industrial History Society and the Rothley Heritage Trust. This collaborative approach gave us privileged access to valuable resources and really added to the wealth of materials that we were providing. It was great to be able to set up CONTENTdm for them to use themselves," said Ben Wynne, Head of Academic Liaison at the University of Leicester.

After introducing their collections online through CONTENTdm, the librarians noticed the increasing attention the collections attracted. "Usage statistics are increasing with every newly digitized collection," explained Tania Rowlett, Project Manager at the University of Leicester. "CONTENTdm has provided an avenue for showing our materials on a customized website."

Implementation went well and left staff with time to focus on getting their collections online. "One big strength has been we haven't needed much technical support locally," recalled Ben.

Library at a glance

• Founded in 1921 as Leicestershire and Rutland University College
• 23,000 students attend the university
• Holds a range of special collections, which include rare books, manuscripts and portrait prints