Democratizing Access: The Life Cycle of a Local Government Document in the LoCalDig Project

August 20, 2025

                      Scanning Station    Shelves


We're excited to announce the release of a new video that provides an inside look at the California Local Government Documents Digitization Project With the collection's use rising daily, we wanted to share more about the nature of this project, the people behind it, and its enduring value in an era of political upheaval. Watch this short film to witness the incredible scope of this work and the vital materials being made available.

This production, created by IGS student employees, gives you a unique glimpse into the detailed work of transforming historical publications into a durable, searchable digital collection. You'll see the intricate process, from selecting and processing these documents to scanning and making them publicly accessible.

                         IA Scribe      LoCALDig Staff Meeting 

                         Kris at work      Stacks

The video also places this project within a larger context of the current challenges facing public information and government transparency. It highlights the project's role in ensuring that public records remain accessible, even amidst the rise of political extremism and efforts to distort online government information. As the video demonstrates, the collection empowers citizens, academics, and policymakers to critically analyze information, conduct research, and hold their government accountable. 

We invite you to watch the video to learn more about this vital project and its significance. We also encourage you to explore the rich digital collection itself, a resource that continues to grow and serve as a cornerstone for research and public engagement.

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