The Central Discovery Index (CDI) has expanded its coverage to include records for unique content from the Library of Congress Digital Collections.

Previously, some of this content was accessible through specific collections like 'American Memory' or 'Performing Arts Encyclopedia'. However, the Library of Congress is gradually phasing out the maintenance of these collections and migrating all their content to the new Digital Collections platform. Despite this transition, the discontinued collections will still be accessible as legacy collections within CDI and links will redirect to the new Digital Collections platform.

The integration of the Library of Congress Digital Collections into CDI offers users a broader range of resources to explore in open access. Libraries can choose to activate Library of Congress Digital Collections: All Content (DBID:LCDCD; Collection ID: 615320000000001380), encompassing all the content from the Digital Collections; Alternatively, they have the option to activate individual sub-collections separately, allowing for more granular access to specific areas of interest. For a comprehensive overview of the digital collections available from the Library of Congress, please refer to the attached spreadsheet.

The Library of Congress Digital Collections comprises a vast array of digitized materials, including books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, sound recordings, and more. These collections showcase the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the United States, providing valuable resources for researchers, educators, and the general public. With the inclusion of these collections in CDI, users can conveniently discover and access a wealth of digital content from the Library of Congress, further enriching their research and learning experiences.

• Article last edited: 28-May-2023