Museum staff are increasingly faced with the identification, care, and conservation of videotape formats found in their collections and archives, some of which are many decades old. Staff must inspect the works to assess condition - often without the use of playback equipment - and catch problems before they compromise the works. Videotape has particular storage, housing, and handling needs that when addressed, will substantially prolong its shelf life. At some point in its lifecycle, more drastic measures, such as cleaning and re-formatting, will be necessary to allow future generations to experience art works created through the use of electronic tools.
This guide was created to answer questions commonly asked by custodians of video materials:
How can I identify a video format and know its characteristics? Identification of video formats provides pictures and identifying features of 15 videotape formats.
What are the risks to video materials? Risks to videotape longevity gives an overview of common damage caused by people, machines, the environment, and equipment obsolescence.
How can I evaluate the condition of a videotape? Condition assessment explains how to inspect videotapes and determine condition through observation and inference.
What conservation actions should be taken if the video is at risk? Conservation actions provides guidance for typical first steps through in-house actions and/or the use of vendor services.
Where can I learn more about video preservation? Resources for video preservation leads you to sources for more in-depth information, conservation supplies, and key vendors.
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