The homogeneity of the collection also provided an opportunity to
develop streamlined processes, for example by loading nine images at
a time onto the large format scanner, then utilizing Photoshop tools to
deskew and adjust each image before saving it individually. We also
were able to make optimum use of the template option within the
CONTENTdm Project Client to automate the entry of identical
information into selected metadata fields as each object is imported.
In this manner large groups of records could be created in the Project
Client and then uploaded in a batch operation for approval. The
approval process itself was efficient because only the relatively few
unique fields in each record (e.g. title, LC subject heading) needed to
be carefully checked by the approver.
We have also used Elias Tzoc's web-based tool to create a tag
cloud based on subject headings in the collection. Tag clouds offer a
useful alternative to traditional subject heading lists because they
provide users with a quick sense of the major subjects in a collection.
The Digital Initiatives team has made every effort to involve the
Arts Center of Cannon County in developing the collection. Initial
meetings with Evan Hatch, the Center’s folklorist, covered everything
from selection issues to scanning standards. The Center’s logo appears
on the collection web site, and links to the Center’s web site. Treating
the Center as an equal partner improved the quality of this initial
digital collection, and it has also increased the likelihood of future
partnerships. Early success of the project has encouraged discussions
of additional materials that may be forthcoming to document the
history and deep crafts tradition of Cannon County.