LOC Novel High-Density Optical Data Storage

The Library of Congress, hereinafter referred to as the �Library� or �LOC�,� is exploring innovative preservation methods for its digital collections. The LOC is seeking to determine the feasibility of utilizing ultra-high density optical data storage designed for the long-term preservation of a subset of the Library�s digital collections. Currently, the Library manages over 1 billion unique objects of digital preservation data (~33 petabytes) via traditional storage methods. For longevity and reduced migration intervals, it may be reasonable for this portion of data to be permanently stored on a novel medium. The focus would be on a solution that exhibits high areal density, a long lifespan, reduced maintenance/migration cycles, is immutable, and displays a high level of durability. The Library aims to demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative optical data storage solution as a high-density, scalable, and durable medium for storing its preservation collection. The Library wishes to examine the feasibility of this method on a small subset of its digital collections. To be successful, a variety of data formats�including video, audio, text, and images� must be encoded onto the media, errors must be detected/recorded, preservation techniques must be validated and select data must be recalled/read with high fidelity. This work will contribute to the boundary pushing field of high-density optical data storage while pushing the boundaries of access and preservation. The desired outcomes of this requirement are as follows: The successful writing of 1TB of the Library�s digital data in various formats (video, audio, images, text) onto a robust high-density optical media designed to outlast legacy storage solutions at a higher areal density. The determination of the accuracy of the writing process by demonstrating early-stage error detection and ultimate 100% recovery of data. The documentation of successful processes, shortcomings, error rates, timelines, potential...