Langzeitarchivs

Langzeitarchivs refers to the process and infrastructure dedicated to the long-term preservation of digital information. The core objective is to ensure that digital assets remain accessible and usable over extended periods, often decades or even centuries, despite technological obsolescence, media degradation, and changing formats. This involves a systematic approach to managing digital collections, encompassing selection, acquisition, storage, preservation actions, and retrieval.

Key challenges in langzeitarchivs include the rapid evolution of hardware and software, the fragility of digital media, and the sheer volume of data being generated. To address these, institutions employ various strategies. These can include format migration, where data is converted to newer, more stable formats, or emulation, which involves recreating the original software and hardware environment to access legacy data. Regular integrity checks and redundant storage solutions are also crucial to prevent data loss.

Langzeitarchivs is essential for a wide range of stakeholders, including cultural heritage institutions like libraries and archives, research organizations, government bodies, and businesses. It underpins the ability to access historical records, scientific data, cultural works, and business records for future generations. The development of robust standards, policies, and best practices is ongoing to ensure the enduring value of our digital heritage.