SOIMA 2011: Safeguarding Sound and Image Collections DATES: 11 ‐29 July, 2011 (3 weeks) PLACE: Riga, (Latvia) with study visits to partner institutions in other Baltic states ORGANIZERS : ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property) National Archives of Latvia The Baltic Audiovisual Archival Council (BAAC) With the cooperation of : University of Latvia Lithuanian Central State Archive Latvian National Library Estonian Film Archives THE COURSE Today sound and image records account for a large portion of the world´s memory and are found in diverse cultural institutions. As documents of intangible heritage and contemporary culture they are of immense value; yet, archives, museums, libraries and other cultural institutions around the world are struggling to conserve their sound and image collections in both analogue and digital formats. Moreover, conservation of sound and image materials is complex and requires specialized guidance, skills and infrastructure. While digitization offers new possibilities for wider access and preservation, many institutions lack expertise to assess the technological implications and to make informed choices that do not strain institutional resources and at the same time respect the authenticity and inherent values of this heritage. The course will provide an overview of issues related to the preservation and access of sound and image materials e.g. ...