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NSLS Digitization Center

North Suburban Library System now offers access to our Digitization Center for all NSLS member libraries. Whether you just have a few odd-sized items, a handful of VHS tapes, or entire boxes of unique collections to digitize, we are here to help.

Benefits of Using the Center
Digitization generates exciting new opportunities for libraries of all types and the communities they serve. Preservation and increased access are essential to libraries’ relevance and ability to thrive. We are eager to support our members in this very important work. The Digitization Center provides:

• Equipment: State-of-the-art equipment is available for digitizing a wide range of materials from oral histories to panorama photos to slides.
• Experience: Having worked with many different types of organizations and projects since 1998, we can guide users in the selection of appropriate projects, match projects to the right equipment, provide appropriate training, and ensure that the completed projects meet current best practices.
• Assistance: One-on-one training is available, enabling members to acquire the skills necessary to digitize their items with minimal supervision. A staff member is available for assistance at all times the Center is in use.

Equipment Available

• Large-format flatbed scanner (Epson Expression 10000XL) capable of scanning up to a tabloid-format newspaper, over two dozen slides at a time, and various negatives formats (e.g. 35mm and Brownie, possibly others).
• Smaller-format flatbed scanner (Plustek OpticBook 3600) with a 90-degree edge to eliminate gutter shadows for scanning non-fragile bound materials.
• Software includes Adobe PhotoShop Elements and OCR capture software.
• Video and audio capture equipment and software capable of handling VHS tapes, audio cassettes, DVDs, and CDs.
• Graphics-optimized PC with CD burner.

Using the Center
The Center is available weekdays by appointment. One-on-one customized hands-on training in the Center will be provided prior to use. Training includes instruction in the use of the capture equipment and software. All first-time users are assessed a $400 fee which includes training and use of the Center for the remainder of the day. Pricing options after the initial day:

• Per day (based on a 7.5 hour day): $300
  
• Per week (based on a 37.5 hour week of 5 contiguous days): $1,200
  
• Block of 100 hours with flexible scheduling based on Center’s availability: $2,700 (good for one year from date of purchase)

To make an appointment to use the Center or for more information, contact Kay Schlumpf.