How the Library is using digital technology to open up its collections.

As the Library of Birmingham approaches its first anniversary, digital technology is being used to provide unprecedented access to its vast collections of manuscripts, books, maps and artefacts.

An app for mobiles and tablets – Dozens and Trails – received 1500 downloads in the first three months since the library’s opening last September, and touch-screen tables are providing a fun way for visitors to see precious items normally hidden from view.

David Potts, Head of Learning Resources at the Library of Birmingham explains: “Digital technology is a great tool for showcasing our collections in an accessible and engaging way, hopefully inspiring people to learn more about the city’s past and their own heritage through the resources available at the Library. The Dozens and Tails app is a fun and highly visual introduction to the Library’s archive, heritage and photography resources. ‘

“Dozens’ are quirky groups of 12 items from our collections and elsewhere with an interesting common link. ‘Trails’ are map-based activities which take visitors to historic locations in the city where they can use the app to view that spot as it looked in the early days of photograph or see archival material to learn about the history of the place.”

“We are constantly uploading new material to the app, opening up access to the Library’s vast archive, heritage and photography collections to an unprecedented extent and to a wider audience, not only in the region for across the world. We’re currently working on the possibility of producing a special Tolkien Trail to later in the year, celebrating the author’s links to Birmingham.”