Author: Martín Federico Ortiz
In the Laboratorio de Aguas Cuyanas, one of our objectives is to aid in the digital transition of archives and libraries, preserving and democratizing access to historical data about the environment. Our efforts are currently focused on the Archivo Histórico del Agua (AHA), part of the Departamento General de Irrigación (DGI) in Mendoza, Argentina, with the aim of transforming its valuable document collection into relevant knowledge and accessible tools.
Since 2014, we have worked collaboratively with local, national and institutional institutions to develop a preservation model that combines technological innovation, academic reflection, and deep research.
A key step on this path was the incorporation in 2018 of a V scanner, the first of its kind in the province of Mendoza, developed by our partners in Bibliohack (https://bibliohack.org). This DIY tool, built with easily obtained materials and making use of off-the-shelf compact digital cameras, allows us to digitize documents delicately, without affecting the physical integrity of the documents. This tool represents a significant advance for the Archivo Histórico del Agua. Even more importantly, it represents an example of creative and accessible digitization solutions for institutions of the Global South, where economic resources do not always allow access to expensive, custom-built solutions.
Over time, we came to see the need to tackle “large items”, like the bound books of water registrations and files held by the AHA, which are exceptionally sizable (up to 122 x 41 cm when open). In 2020, building on our prior experience, we began the design and development of an overhead scanner. This tool, built from of a modular light aluminum structure, is equipped with a reflect camera (it can also be used with compact or smartphone cameras). The height and movement of the camera can be varied, for the best effect. Its design also allows for future improvements, like the incorporation of new light sources or strengthened structures.
Source: Archivo Laboratorio Aguas Cuyanas
The overhead scanner functions through open software for image capture which can be deployed on any computer. Recently, we have subjected it to various tests to optimize its functioning, tackling matters like the preservation of paper and the visibilidad of inks and traces on the scanned items. In this period, thanks to the generous design of the overhead scanner to capture a broad range of dimensions, we have been able to digitize large-scale maps (like this one) or historical manuscripts..
Thanks to these developments, the AHA has managed to advance in the preservation and access to our patrimony, producing innovative solutions to technical and material challenges. Digitization is not only a matter of technology to protect and preserve original documents, but also of commitment with historical memory – hydraulic in this case – with environmental history and with broad access to knowledge. Gracias a estos desarrollos, el AHA ha logrado avanzar en la preservación y accesibilidad de su patrimonio, enfrentando los desafíos técnicos y materiales con soluciones innovadoras. La digitalización no es solo una cuestión de tecnología para proteger y preservar los documentos originales, sino un compromiso con la memoria -hídrica-, la historia ambiental y el acceso al conocimiento.
For more information, you can consult this account of setting up the V scanner.
We look forward to being in touch over the web or social media.