Knowledge Centre • Books & Bound Materials

What Is Oversized Book Scanning?

Oversized books, atlases and large-format volumes require capture equipment that can support the whole object.

Large volumes can be heavy and difficult to open safely. The capture bed should accommodate the object and avoid unsupported overhang.

Professional guidance: The Library of Congress specifies that oversized books and books with foldouts should use equipment with a sufficiently large scanning bed.

Oversized 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

Atlases

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

Large art books

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

Oversized ledgers

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

Architectural books

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

Historic albums

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

Books with foldouts

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

Key considerations

  • Atlases
  • Large art books
  • Oversized ledgers
  • Architectural books
  • Historic albums
  • Books with foldouts

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.