Digitization
If you have old media that you would like to preserve, our station can help you convert them into digital files. This is a perfect way to store and share cherished memories.
Our Digitization Station can convert a variety of media formats, including:
- VHS tapes
- Floppy disks
- Records
- Cassettes
To use our service, please follow these steps:
- Get a free Richmond Public Library Card
- Follow our online tutorials to learn to use the Digitization Station
- Book the Digitization Stations
Note: Remember to bring a USB drive or other storage device to save your newly digitized files.
Audio Cassettes and LP Records Tutorial
Learn how to make digital copies of your records and cassettes to easily play them on your computer or personal device.
VHS Digitization Tutorial
Learn how to make digital copies of your VHS tapes to easily play them on your computer personal device.
1-on-1 Help with Digitization Stations
Get 1-on-1 help with our Digitization Station from our helpful staff.
FAQ
Digitization is the process of converting physical analog media, such as a VHS, floppy disk or vinyl record, into a digital file that can be stored and edited on a device or computer. Compact Disks (CDs) contain digital media and cannot be digitized on this station.
The Richmond Public Library has a digitization station at Brighouse Library. You can learn, create and edit projects at Brighouse Library on a first-come drop-in basis logging in with your library card.
The Richmond Public Library has a Sony Hi-Fi VCR, Audio-technica-AT LP120, Pyle-Home PT659DU Dual Stereo Cassette Deck and Dazzle capture device.
Audacity, DaVinci Resolve, OBS and VLC media player are loaded on the digitization creation station.
You can create personalized items using the digitization station. People are using the digitization station to create family videos, preserve memories and create digital copies for storage.
Anyone with a free Full Access Richmond Public Library Card can use our library’s equipment, physical collections, programs and services. Members who wish to digitize their own media may use their library card to log in to the digitization creation station at the library. There are helpful step by step online tutorial guides, but it is not mandatory to complete these before coming to use the station.
There is no charge for using the Digitization Station.
The time it takes can vary depending on the type and length of the media. Analog media is captured in real time. For example, a 90-minute VHS tape will take 90 minutes to digitize, plus additional time to save the digital file to your portable storage device, such as a USB stick or hard drive.
We’re here to help! However, please note that support during your session is limited, and our staff can only answer basic questions. After completing the certification, you’ll be ready to prepare the files as needed for your project. If you need extra assistance, feel free to book a 1-on-1 Help session here: https://www.yourlibrary.ca/help1on1
Staff run digitization demos. Visit out Digital Learning Tour page to request a visit.