TÜ raamatukogu digiteerimistegevus

Abstract

Digitisation Activities at the University of Tartu Library

University of Tartu Library, being the oldest and largest research library in Estonia, has paid much attention to the digitisation of its unique collections of diverse materials, starting with rare manuscripts of cultural and scientific historical value, paintings, works of graphic art, photos, maps and historical objects up to dissertations, periodicals and monographs needed for university research and teaching. These collections are unique not only in Estonia but in the wider international context as well. Digitisation is one of the best and in many cases the only method for guaranteeing that the cultural and
scientific heritage will as a whole be preserved in the most suitable format and be accessible to as many
target groups as possible. Therefore, the library has prioritised the digitisation of its most used and also
most at risk collections. This allows to keep critically damaged valuable materials off circulation and helps
to ensure their preservation. This article tells about different materials, which have been digitised and made digitally accessible at the UT Library, and about Estonian and international projects where the library has participated.