Library, national archives, museums enter digital era

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 04, 2015
Library, national archives, museums enter digital era

THREE KEY agencies under the Culture Ministry are going "digital" in response to the government's policy.

Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanara yesterday said the National Library of Thailand (NLT), the National Archives of Thailand (NAT) and the Office of National Museums (ONM) are now implementing projects to improve the delivery of their services through IT integration.
“The moves are in line with the government’s digital economy policy,” he said. 
According to Vira, NAT now offers online access to 886 documents, 15,000 films and 20,000 ancient photos under its care. 
“While service users enjoy greater convenience, it is also easier for the NAT to maintain the original centuries-old items,” Vira said.
As for the NLT, he said it would convert its books into online items and develop a system through which people could check for books they want on their smartphones. 
“It will also make rare books and ancient documents available in digital format,” he added. 
Vira said the ONM, meanwhile, would focus on developing virtual interactions at its facilities so as to modernise its image and boost its appeal.
“ONM will also develop smartphone-based features for their museums,” he said.
He said hardware development is necessary to facilitate these agencies’ transition into the digital era and also to ensure the security of the digital systems.