Portico--CLOCKSS--LOCKSS: Digital Preservation Services That Work

Abstract

Electronic resources are research formats of choice and of necessity in today’s world. The digital transformation of information delivery in this technological age has successfully invaded libraries located in organizations, in public and private settings, in colleges and universities. A library’s Collection Development department is dedicating an exorbitant percentage of its resource funds to the purchase of e-format in lieu of print or microform materials. Constituents need immediate access to research information whether in dorm rooms, in cafes, in classes, at home, or while waiting for a train or bus. Such information access happens beyond the walls of library buildings. This shift in format preference requires digital preservation with rigorous guidelines that safeguard a massive corpus of information. How will libraries ensure that digital resources purchased in 2017 sustain accessibility 24/7, with uninterrupted service, and have trusted content integrity for patrons of all ages and at all levels of education in a year, in ten years, or in the future?

Three trustworthy digital preservation services, LOCKSS (Lots of Copies Keep Stuff Safe), CLOCKSS (Controlled LOCKSS), and Portico – a service under the umbrella of ITHAKA that also operates JSTOR, are the foci of this presentation. These services have costs; however, such services address digital caveats in our changing information environment. It would be next to impossible to calculate the immeasurable cost of information that could be lost simply because of fail-safe initiatives not considered for purchase. Therefore, implementing digital preservation methods that ensure perpetual access and secure the e-format version of mankind’s knowledge should be a major component of any library’s strategic mission.