Ispectrum Magazine Ispectrum Magazine #08 | Page 39

of digital-born media does not exist outside of bits and bytes. It is fragile. This fragility will pose new problems for future generations of digital archaeologists. Professional archivists of today make an effort to ensure success for future treasure hunters. They study the digital equivalent to the conditions that allowed the Dead Sea Scrolls to survive. Some of today’s professionals delve into the type of computer code, file formats, electronic storage devices, meta data and duplicate records used for communication. The goal for contemporary digital preservationists: make sure digital media is interpretable in the indefinite future. The value of rare books, newspapers, magazines, 38