For collections whose bindings do not need to be retained
This method can be suitable for larger quantities when originals may be altered. Its suitability depends on paper, dimensions, binding and the intended result.
The key decision is the loss of the original binding. If the book needs to survive as a bound object, this service is not the appropriate method. Our comparison of scanning methods explains the differences.
Our own capacity: up to 500,000 sheets per day
For destructive digitisation, we have our own scanning capacity of up to 500,000 sheets per day. Capturing both sides with duplex scanning corresponds to up to one million individual pages per day.
This figure refers to scanning alone. Preparation, quality checks, OCR, metadata processing and further processing stages are scheduled separately. We agree achievable throughput and the project start date based on the material, scanning settings and requirements.
One-off jobs and smaller regular volumes are welcome too, such as 1,000 sheets per day or considerably fewer. This is an example, not a minimum order quantity. We agree the appropriate scope of work and schedule together.
From approval to digital files
- Clarify material, quantity and desired output
- Record permission to cut the binding and the subsequent handling of loose pages
- Remove the spine and prepare the page sequence for capture
- Scan the pages, check them against the agreed criteria and associate the files
Digital output and further processing
Digitised pages are delivered in the agreed order and file structure. Combined PDFs or individual images may suit different uses. Resolution, colour and further processing form part of the service agreement.
OCR, metadata and article segmentation can be added. These steps are described separately so that the delivery is clear: page images, searchable documents or additional structured data.
What we need to know beforehand
Specify the number of items or pages, dimensions and any unusual binding features. Explicit permission to alter the original is essential. Handling of the loose pages after scanning is agreed before work begins; rebinding is not automatically included.
Frequently asked questions
Can the book be returned unchanged?
No. Cutting alters the original binding. We agree how the remaining pages will be handled beforehand.
Is destructive scanning always cheaper?
There is no universal answer. Quantity, material, preparation and requested processing determine the individual proposal.
What does duplex mean in destructive scanning?
Duplex means capturing the front and back of a sheet. Each sheet scanned on both sides produces two digital pages. Destructive refers to cutting the binding beforehand; the two terms describe different steps.