Visual evidence: photographic presentation of landscape and people

Abstract

The University of St Andrews Library has extensive photographic collections, ranging from a fine collection of very early photography (stemming from St Andrews’ important position in the development of photography in Scotland), to modern documentary and topographical images. In order to increase access to these collections, and to assist in their preservation, the University is in the process of digitising the images, and providing them on-line, with a detailed searchable database index. In recent years, this programme has been undertaken in collaboration with the Universities of Dundee and Aberdeen, in the RSLP-funded Visual evidence project, which aims to provide a single point of access to all three collections. Much has been achieved in recent years using this type of temporary, project-oriented funding, but a period of consolidated, predictable funding is now needed in order to safeguard and further progress the advances made so far.