A Prototype System of Sustainable Community Memory Archive for Public Libraries

Abstract

Background. Recently, universities and broadcasting stations have been constructing large-scale digital archives of prominent events such as the World Wars and natural disasters using advanced technologies, including virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and natural language processing (NLP). However, what has been neglected is a digital archive of community memory related to everyday life in local areas. Public libraries can play a significant role in the preservation of digital community memory, just as conventional archives. Objective. To prototype a system of sustainable community memory archive for public libraries to adopt—to provide digital oral history to local community members and other interested parties. Methods. The design principle of the prototype system was derived from the literature review of related studies and representative digital archive initiatives. A prototype system was developed using a 360 degrees camera. Results. A workflow and prototype system that can capture up to four people discussing their community memories and create VR content where a viewer can have an immersive viewing experience to watch the video as if the viewer is part of the discussion.