Robotic Book Scanner - a new addition to our digitizing efforts

Latest News:

Sikh National Archives of Canada (SNAC) is pleased to announce that it has acquired a state of art robotic book scanner to further aid in the laborious process of scanning the vast SNAC collection. This robotic scanner is able to scan up to 2500 pages per hour and with its unique V shaped cradle providing the smallest opening angle, the ScanRobot® allows most gentle book scanning with no overstretching of the books. A used ScanRobot is $90K, while this is a significant investment for a small archive, the technology allows SNAC to scan high quality distortion free pages in a highly efficient way. Click here to watch the scanner in action.

Opportunities

This book scanner provides some exciting opportunities. It will allow SNAC to scan and upload their collection. As well as extend the service to community members, offering them the opportunity to have their private collections scanned. By uploading those scans to the SNAC digital library, it will make them more accessible to the wider community. This is critical as it helps the archives to preserve rare works and ensure their extended existence. It helps Sikhs of all ages to connect to their roots and feel a greater sense of belonging within the Sikh Canadian narrative.

Click here or on the picture above to watch the OMNI tv coverage of the event.

History

Since the 1980’s Sikh National Archives of Canada (SNAC) mandate has been to actively collect, store, exhibit and archive historic religious cultural materials which relate to the Sikh faith within the Canadian Sikh experience. These artifacts include published and unpublished literature, scriptures, books, articles, letters, newspapers and documents.

How can you get involved?

Become a member for free and explore the collection, spread the word, follow us on instagram. If you have a collection and would like us to scan it, would like to volunteer your time, or for more information please contact us via [email protected].

You can help to preserve our memories

The Sikh National Archives of Canada is a small charitable organization and relies on the generosity of our community to help us continue this important work. We have one-time costs like the acquisition of scanning equipment, storage shelving etc. We also have running costs, online storage costs, website management and Website Development, Digitization Staff, Image Editing Costs, Software Costs. Please help us continue this vital work by becoming a monthly supporter.