The lifespan of a VHS tape is limited, many lasting only 20-30 years. VHS collections in both academic and public libraries are becoming more and more obsolete, with bulky and underused tapes taking up valuable shelf space. However, the process of weeding your VHS collection may be intimidating. This article will provide some helpful first steps to consider and answers to questions that may arise during the deselection process.
How do you decide what titles to keep?
The most important first step in weeding your VHS collection is determining rules for the deselection process. The University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press recently underwent a VHS collection and relocation project, in which VHS tapes were withdrawn or moved to a remote storage facility. To make the process easier, Meghann Matwichuk, associate librarian and coordinator of the Film & Video Collection, came up with some basic rules for the deselection process.
- If there is an identical version of a film in an updated format, the VHS copy can be withdrawn. However, most rewritable DVDs (DVD-R) are not considered an acceptable substitute due to frequent playback issues.
- If an identical version of a film is available at a reasonable price in an updated format, like DVD, the VHS can be withdrawn once the updated version arrives.
- If the film is used frequently (once or more per year) the VHS can be kept on site.
Specific rules will depend on the demands of your library but creating limits and regulations before the deselection process is good practice.
What media options are there when replacing VHS?
DVDs and Blu-Rays are the most widely available physical formats when replacing VHS tapes. You can also check out our article on digitization to start exploring digital alternatives.
Another resource is Academic Libraries Video Trust, a service dedicated to the preservation of audiovisual works at libraries, providing a repository of educational works that are typically available only in VHS format.
Are VHS tapes completely obsolete?
Short answer, no. When undergoing their VHS collection process, the University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press actually decided to purchase another VHS tape to replace a worn-out copy, instead of turning to a digital copy or DVD. The film, Star Wars: A New Hope was frequently used in a course, as newer releases of the film contain additional content and edited scenes. So, newer formats aren't always better. When choosing to withdraw certain VHS tapes, it is important to consider the value they may have for library patrons.
What can you do with withdrawn media?
Lastly, what can be done with the VHS tapes you have decided to withdraw? Since VHS tapes are considered e-waste, they should be discarded accordingly at a residential waste or recycling center.
Although the library is choosing to withdraw these materials, some patrons may be willing to take them home. For example, at Brown University, withdrawn VHS were placed in boxes outside of the library, encouraging senior students to snag a piece of University memorabilia.
Although weeding your VHS collection is a big undertaking, having a plan for the selection process, understanding new media formats, and knowing what to do with withdrawn materials can make the process simpler.