The National Library of Ireland (NLI) is continually exploring new ways to enhance digital access to its collections. Its Digital team focuses on improving both the technical processes and the ways to digitally represent collection items – just as photography has helped showcase objects, 3D technologies are opening up new possibilities.

3D digitisation has become a growing focus in cultural institutions globally, particularly across the EU. The 2019 fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral, which destroyed its wooden spire, highlighted the value of digital preservation.

In 2024, the NLI partnered with a 3D scanning hub to pilot workshops on scanning and printing collection items. Staff explored the tech hands-on and shared feedback throughout the process. NLI shortlisted and prioritised key items for scanning.

This spring, its scanning partner loaned the library a 3D scanner for one week, allowing staff to gain hands-on experience. They were particularly interested in how 3D scanning can improve access to fragile, detailed, or unusually shaped objects that don’t translate well in 2D.

Learn more: https://www.nli.ie/news-stories/stories/bringing-history-life-exploring-3d-scanning-technology-nli