Collaborative models for archival collections

In these times of increased competition for funds both internally and externally, cultural institutions have to find more creative ways to open access to their collections as well as models of sustainability. This paper discusses the power of the term ‘collaboration’ and explores what is really meant by collaboration with others — to go past the singular notion of partnership and think of collaboration as both an action and a social objective. Why should anyone collaborate with others? What criteria should all partners take into account before they embark on a project? What of social or participatory collaboration? Why should people begin to view sustained user participation as a form of collaboration and what outcomes can be achieved through audience participation — either through the general public or through targeted groups of users? How can projects be created that appeal to a wide variety of users? How can people entice and sustain social participation? This paper will discuss several collaborative projects undertaken by WGBH Media Library and Archives and the diverse outcomes of those collaborations.