4. Guiding Principles
Libraries Tasmania follows the following seven digital preservation guiding principles for long-term access.
4.1 Ensure record authenticity
We commit to acquiring the most authentic and complete version of each item, regardless of the original format and prioritise it for long-term preservation. Secondary or access copies may be retained.
4.2 Ensure integrity and transparency
All digital items will be stabilised on receipt through checksum validation, and all preservation actions will be documented in the archives management system for transparency. Where preservation results in a new version, the original will remain unchanged.
4.3 Create and protect master files
We establish preservation master files from which derivatives may be created. These masters are securely stored in a trusted digital repository designed to support long-term accessibility and authenticity.
4.4 Maintain linked metadata
Every digital object is persistently connected to its archival or library record through item-specific links, ensuring traceability, contextual integrity, and discoverability across systems.
4.5 Assess risks and apply standards
Risk assessments are conducted for all items both processed and unprocessed, to address potential threats to format viability, data integrity, and accessibility. Preservation decisions and practices are guided by international standards including OAIS, ISO16363, ADRI, and PREMIS.
4.6 Support creators and institutions
We provide practical guidance to creators and government organisations for producing, storing and transferring archival material, including recommended file formats and metadata. We use our expertise to assist government organisations to meet digital preservation standards and ensure any contract requests and negotiations with service providers comply with this Policy.
4.7 Our people and relationships
Our staff will have the appropriate digital preservation skills, knowledge and experience. We will share our experiences with our sector colleagues and learn from the work of others. We will work collaboratively across the different specialisations within our parent department to ensure our digital preservation practices are compatible with the technology environment that is available to us.
