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Memory Lab

Digitize your memories at the Main Library.

About the Memory Lab

The Memory Lab is a do-it-yourself space for the community to digitize and preserve a variety of audio/visual media formats. Customers will have access to knowledgeable staff who will explain how to digitize material. Our goal is to provide users with the tools needed for the conversion of their digital projects so that they can proceed independently. 

Customers are not required to have a library card to use the equipment, tools, or materials in the Memory Lab. However, they must be able to prove they are at least 18 years old by either showing a photo ID or their preexisting library card. Patrons must sign in with Media Staff each time they use the Lab.

Hours of Operation

There will be three two-hour sessions per day, Monday – Thursday, at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM.

To use the MRCPL Memory Lab, customers should call ahead to schedule a session. Sessions may be scheduled up to a week in advance by emailing AV@mrcpl.org or calling the Media Department at 419.521.3120.

What Can Be Digitized?

  • VHS Cassettes to SD Card or USB (8-64 GB)
  • VHS-C Cassettes to SD Card or USB (8-64 GB)
  • Hi8 / Digital 8 / 8mm Cassettes to SD Card or USB (8-64 GB)
  • Mini DV Cassettes to SD Card or USB (8-64 GB)
  • DVD / Mini DVD to SD Card or USB (8-64 GB)
  • 8 mm / Super 8 Film Reels to SD Card (8-32 GB) [No Sound]
  • Audio Cassette to USB (8 GB)
  • Vinyl Records to USB (8 GB)
  • 50 mm Slides to SD (8-32 GB)
  • Color & B/W Negatives (110, 126, 135) to SD Card (8-32 GB)

Customers must provide their own storage device (see specifications above).

Disclaimer

*MRCPL does not accept responsibility if a customer’s personal property or project is destroyed or damaged, does not work, or is not correctly saved to a portable device. MRCPL reserves the right to halt, delete or disallow the creation of items that violate Library policy, including items that are inappropriate in a public setting or that create a disturbance.

*Customers must follow all applicable intellectual property laws, including all copyright laws. Customers are responsible for obtaining their own protections for an intellectual property developed in the Memory Lab.