Which scanning method suits your collection?
Non-destructive scanning preserves the binding. The opening angle, narrow margins and fragile paper determine how a book can be captured. We discuss the condition of the original and how it should be handled before processing.
Destructive scanning removes the spine so that loose sheets can be scanned individually. This permanently changes the bound original, so we only use this method after prior agreement.
| Criterion | Non-destructive | Destructive |
|---|---|---|
| Binding | Remains intact | Is cut open |
| Typical reason for choosing it | The bound original must be preserved | Altering the original is explicitly permitted |
| To agree beforehand | Condition, opening angle and complete capture | Permission to cut and handling of loose sheets |
What do you receive after digitisation?
A scan is initially an image of a page. An ordered PDF may be sufficient for reading. Individual image files, such as TIFF, can suit other workflows. File names, page order and output formats are agreed in advance.
Searchable full text requires an additional OCR step. Bibliographic metadata and splitting a journal volume into articles are further services. We agree which results are included in your delivery.
- Digital pages in an agreed order with consistent names
- Agreed image or document formats
- OCR, metadata or article segmentation according to project scope
- Quality checks against criteria established beforehand
What information helps us prepare a quote?
Please provide the number of items or an estimated page count, dimensions, condition and a few representative sample pages. Describe the intended result, such as a readable PDF, searchable text or files for a catalogue.
Resolution, colour, further processing, transport and return of originals are agreed for each project. A sample file can help establish the expected output before a larger batch is processed.
Frequently asked questions
Can every bound book be scanned non-destructively?
We cannot promise that without assessing the material. Binding, paper condition, dimensions and the permitted opening angle affect feasibility. We establish a suitable approach beforehand.
Is OCR automatically included with scanning?
OCR is agreed as a separate processing step. A scan alone does not necessarily contain searchable or selectable text.
Is there a fixed price per page?
We prepare individual quotes. Page count, condition, scanning method, further processing and data preparation determine the work involved.