/ Case Studies Heritage Digitisation
Adam Matthew - Sheffield Libraries and Archives - Sex and Sexuality: Module 2
On-site digitisation of mixed-format archival collections for academic publication
Microform was engaged by Adam Matthew to undertake the on-site digitisation of material from Sheffield Libraries and Archives as part of the Sex and Sexuality: Module 2 collection.
The project formed part of a wider academic publishing programme, requiring high-quality digital capture of historically significant material for online access and research use.
The collection comprised a diverse range of archival formats, including manuscripts, printed material, bound volumes, and loose documents.
/ The Challenge
How do you digitise a varied and historically significant archival collection on site within a working archive environment while maintaining careful handling, consistent quality, and outputs suitable for academic publication?
Collection complexity
The project involved on-site digitisation within a live archive setting, with material ranging from loose documents to bound volumes and guard books. Variation in structure, format, and condition required a flexible but closely controlled capture approach.
- Loose and bound material, including guard books and correspondence
- Variation in format, structure, and physical condition
- Careful handling required for fragile manuscript material
- Need for consistent image quality across different item types
On-site heritage digitisation
Microform established an on-site heritage digitisation setup within Sheffield Libraries and Archives so that all material could remain within the archive environment throughout the project.
- Pre-digitisation assessment of material condition and format
- High-resolution capture systems for both bound and loose material
- Controlled handling techniques for manuscripts and fragile items
- Support for bound volumes to prevent stress during capture
Structured delivery
Capture workflows were designed to support both accurate preservation imaging and downstream academic publishing requirements, ensuring outputs were consistent, usable, and suitable for digital platforms.
- Consistent capture of single-page and multi-page content
- Structured workflows supporting accuracy and traceability
- High-quality outputs prepared for academic publication
- Digital files supporting long-term research and access
/ Long-term benefits
On-site control
Material remained within the archive environment throughout digitisation.
Mixed-format expertise
Loose papers, bound volumes, and manuscripts were handled within one workflow.
Publication-ready outputs
The completed images were suitable for academic platforms and research use.
Reduced handling
Digital access reduces future handling of original archival material.
/ Outcome
The project was successfully delivered within the required timeframe, producing a high-quality digital collection ready for integration into Adam Matthew's academic platform. The digitised material now supports research and teaching while improving access to historically significant content and reducing the need for repeated handling of original archive material.