University Library Maastricht achieves successful digital integration for enhanced heritage access

This project, which ran from December 2023 to August 2024, showcases how technology can make heritage collections more accessible and useful to researchers and the public. IIIF (International Image Interoperability Framework) is a standard that enhances the online visibility and accessibility of images from heritage collections. With IIIF, users can easily view high-resolution images, zoom in on details, and compare images from different collections side by side. In this month of Digital Heritage (Maand van Digitaal Erfgoed) the UM Library proudly presents its results. Among the newly accessible items is the collected works of 16th-century anatomist Andreas Vesalius. 

Meeting the needs of heritage researchers 

In response to the needs of the academic community, UM Library has applied international standards that make digital heritage collections more accessible and reusable. The improvements support researchers in finding and utilising digital heritage images for their work, education, and digital projects, aligning with the university’s broader research and educational mission. 

Structured project approach and testing 

The project team, consisting of a project manager, two ICT developers, and three collection specialists, prioritised essential functions, focusing on quality, user experience, and scalability. After a structured design and exploration phase, the team used an Agile approach to develop and rigorously test the solution, ensuring a user-friendly experience for both researchers and library staff. 

Inspiration and resources for other institutions 

UB Maastricht’s project provides a roadmap for other institutions seeking to make heritage collections more accessible. Documentation and source code are freely available on the Tech Talk by Maastricht University Library blog, offering a guide for institutions interested in similar digital transformation projects.