Digitize your memories at UofA’s new Wildcats Memory Lab
Preserve old family media at the Wildcats Memory Lab, the University of Arizona’s DIY digitization space, which opens March 24 in the Main Library.
In an era where precious family memories often remain trapped in outdated formats, the University of Arizona is launching an innovative solution. The new Wildcats Memory Lab, opening March 24 on the Main Library’s third floor, offers the public free access to digitization equipment and expertise to preserve everything from wedding videos to cherished family photographs.
A pioneering digital preservation space
The Wildcats Memory Lab represents a groundbreaking initiative in higher education, potentially being the first public memory lab of its kind at a U.S. university. Led by associate faculty librarian Stacey Erdman, the lab provides three specialized computer stations dedicated to converting print, audio, and video materials into digital formats.
“People inherit old media formats—VHS tapes of childhood performances, albums of photos, camcorder footage—and they don’t know what to do with them,” Erdman explained. “We are providing a space where they can digitize and preserve those memories. We provide all the necessary tools and instruction in a place that is open to the campus and the greater community.”
Equipment and capabilities
The facility, funded by a $43,240 grant from Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records, can process various media types, including:
- Photographs and paper documents
- Vinyl albums and audio cassettes
- VHS tapes
- 3.5-inch floppy disks
- CDs and DVDs
Educational opportunities
Beyond its community service role, the lab offers valuable internship opportunities for students in the College of Information Science. Graduate students Amy Ellsworth and Felix Brigham, the lab’s first interns, have been instrumental in its development.
“Most of our archival coursework is theoretical, so having a space with actual archiving equipment is extremely helpful,” said Ellsworth. “I got into archives because I believe those personal stories matter—even if they never end up in a formal archive or museum. Letting people know their own histories are worth preserving is so important.”
Community access and upcoming events
The public can schedule appointments through the lab website. An open house will be held on March 24 from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring archival footage screenings and various activities in conjunction with CATalyst Studios.
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