Knowledge Centre • Books & Bound Materials

What Is Family History Book Scanning?

Family history collections can include genealogies, family Bibles, memoirs, scrapbooks, diaries, albums and privately printed histories.

Family collections often mix bound books with loose inserts and photographs. Non-destructive capture can preserve these objects while making them easier to share.

Professional guidance: The sentimental and physical value of a family book can be as important as its informational content.

Family history book digitisation

The right method depends on the physical construction, condition and purpose of the book. Non-destructive capture keeps significant originals intact; destructive capture can be appropriate for approved modern production work.

Types of material covered

Family Bibles

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Family histories

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Memoirs

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Genealogy books

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Family scrapbooks

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Family diaries

Considered within the specialist workflow for this type of bound material.

Key considerations

  • Family Bibles
  • Family histories
  • Memoirs
  • Genealogy books
  • Family scrapbooks
  • Family diaries

Need advice on a book or bound collection?

Oxford Duplication Centre can advise on the safest and most appropriate method for published, heritage, family and archival books.