Digitize It!
Memories captured on VHS tapes, cassettes and film can feel like treasures tucked away, but accessing these memories is not always straightforward. Older technology can be fragile, and equipment to play or convert it is becoming harder to find. The library offers several ways to convert these materials into digital files using our conversion kits, helping you safeguard your memories for years to come.
Digitizing your memories doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Reserve conversion kits and equipment for use in the library’s Studio, or by checking out kits from the Library of Things to use at home. For anyone who feels unsure about how to get started, the library offers classes to help you get started.
Convert Your Home VHS Tapes
The VHS Conversion Kit Converts multiple videotape formats (VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, 8mm Tape, MiniDV) into digital files or DVDs.
Convert Your Vinyl Records and Cassette Tapes
The Audio Conversion Kit converts vinyl records and cassette tapes into CDs or digital audio files in real time.
Digitize Your 8mm, Super 8 and 16mm Film Reels
The Reel-to-Reel Film Conversion Kit transforms your film reels into high-quality digital video files.
Scan Your Slides in Minutes
The Batch Slide Scanner Kit rapidly digitizes up to 80 slides in about 10 minutes.
Scan Large, Irregular or Delicate Items
The ScanSnap SV600 captures newspapers, framed photos, scrapbooks, books, and other oversized or uneven originals with ease.
Quickly Scan Stacks of Loose Photos
The FastFoto FF-680W processes up to 30 photo prints in about 10 seconds for fast, high-volume digitizing.
Preserve High-Quality Prints and Film
The Epson Perfection V850 Pro delivers professional-level scanning for delicate prints, film negatives, and larger-than-letter-size photos.
Attend a Class
Digitize It: Slides and Photos
Tuesday, March 17, 11 a.m.–noon
Digitize It: Records, Cassettes, and Voiceovers
Thursday, March 19, 11 a.m.–noon
Digitize It: VHS and 8mm tapes
Tuesday, March 24, 11 a.m., 11 a.m.–noon
Digitize It: Reel to Reel Film
Wednesday, March 25, 2–3 p.m.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re unable to make it to a class, need additional help or a more in-depth assistance with digital conversion kits, cardholders can set up a one-on-one appointment with Digital Services staff at ahml.info/schedule-an-appointment.
Check out the video below to see our conversion kits in action!