Local historical materials are often older and in poor condition. Many are printed on acid paper. Handling is hard on the materials and contributes to their destruction. Yet demand for access to local history and genealogy information is strong and growing. Therefore, a need exists to preserve materials which are fragile and valuable, at the same time allow users access to their content.

In its first year, the HCDC has begun by digitizing Howard County high school yearbooks from 1901 to 1950 and placing them on the Howard County Memory Project web site. Each member owns some but not all of these yearbooks. By using yearbooks from all three members, the total collection will be more complete. These public records will greatly assist researchers trying to track genealogy and other information by providing names and often photos of everyone who has attended high school in Howard County. The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library's dedicated high-speed internet connection and one of its servers is the host for this project.

The Howard County Memory Project will be an ongoing effort that extends beyond the timeline and budget of the initial project. As time and funds permits the consortium will add other Howard County historical records to the project. The database will include full-text, color images, digital photographs of artifacts, metadata, and searchable text for all entries.

GOALS:

• Digitize unique local historical resources.
• Create an online web database devoted to Howard County historical information.
• Improve access by making materials available online.
• Share and pool resources owned by consortium members, as well as other organizations and individuals.
• Preserve materials by reducing use of originals.
• Promote collaboration among organizations which share a common mission within Howard County.