Memories are recorded onto fragile formats.

Our personal histories are captured by degradable media. The Memory Lab Network was created to help individuals and communities across the United States to preserve their recorded memories for the future. Through an application process, sixteen public libraries were selected as partners to create their own Memory Labs.

There are three ways to use a Memory Lab...

1. The Space

A free do-it-yourself digitization and transfer lab with rare and obsolete equipment.

2. The Online Resource

Step-by-step instructions on using the lab, as well as further reading on personal archiving and preservation.

3. The Community Events

A series of ongoing events related to all of these topics: workshops on preserving your family photographs, classes on preserving your social media accounts, Home Movie Day screenings, and other events celebrating local communities and their recorded memory.

Is there a Memory Lab near you?

There are many other organizations across the United States that can assist you with personal archiving. Search this map to find Memory Labs and other related organizations near you!

Build Your Own Do-It-Yourself Memory Lab

If you would like to start a Memory Lab in your community, please visit our "Resources" page for detailed lessons learned, equipment suggestions, video tutorials, class slide decks, and more.