Skip to main content

Memory Labs in Michigan Public Libraries

Woman digitizing a publication using an overhead scanner.
Library Of Michigan

Memory Labs in Michigan Public Libraries

Michigan public libraries are helping residents preserve family photographs, home movies, documents, audio recordings, and community history through Memory Labs. Whether you're looking for a nearby Memory Lab or interested in creating one at your own library, you'll find resources to get started here.

Preserve the Past. Share Community Stories. Build Local History. 

What is a Memory Lab? 

A Memory Lab is a dedicated space - either permanent or portable - that provides the equipment, software, and guidance needed for community members to digitize and preserve their personal and local history. 

Photographic slides on a lightboard Memory Labs help preserve: 

  • Family photographs
  • Scrapbooks and albums
  • Letters and documents
  • VHS and camcorder tapes
  • Audio cassettes
  • Reel-to-reel recordings
  • Slides and negatives
  • Oral histories
  • Other unique historical materials 

Unlike commercial digitization services, Memory Labs are typically free, self-service, and educational, empowering patrons to learn preservation skills while protecting their own collections. Many libraries also pair Memory Labs with workshops, community scanning days, and oral history programs. 

Find a Memory Lab 

The interactive map allows users to search by library name or location, filter by available equipment, and view available services.  

 

 

Don’t see your library or Memory Lab on this map? Add your library to our Memory Lab Directory! 

What Can You Digitize? 

Every Memory Lab is different and the types of material you can digitize will depend on the resources of that lab. Check out examples of the types of materials you can digitize below! 

Photos & Documents

  • Family photographs
  • Letters
  • Certificates
  • Scrapbooks
  • Newspapers 

    Film & Video 
  • VHS
  • VHS-C
  • MiniDV
  • Hi8
  • 8mm film
  • Super 8 film 

    Audio
  • Audiocassette tapes
  • Reel-to-reel
  • Vinyl records
  • CDs

Oral Histories

  • Record new interviews
  • Preserve community stories
  • Capture family memories
  • Share local history

Interested in Starting a Memory Lab?

Whether you're building a permanent Memory Lab, creating a portable kit, or planning community digitization events, the Library of Michigan offers resources to help libraries of all sizes. For help, contact Biz Gallo, Statewide Digitization Initiatives Coordinator - GalloB@michigan.gov, 517-335-1402.