The Memory Center

(Available By Appointment Only)

The Centreville Branch now offers digitization services allowing the public to convert VHS, VHS-C, and Mini DV cassette tapes into a digital .mp4 format which can then be stored on an external hard drive or burned onto a DVD. Please see some of our guidelines below. Any other questions can be directed to info@qaclibrary.org.

What do you want to digitize?

The Memory Center can digitize from the following formats:

  • Video: VHS, VHS-C, Video8, Hi8, Digital8, mini DV

  • Slides: 127, 135 (35 mm), 126, APS, 110, Photos and printed materials up to 8.5” x 11.7”

  • Developed Film/Negatives: Microfiche, 127, 135 (35 mm), 126, APS, 110

  • Movie: 8mm and Super8, either as still images or at 20 FPS without sound

Please make sure your materials are in good condition. The library is not responsible for any damage that may occur during the digitization process. The library also reserves the right to refuse any item that contains mold or had degraded to a point where it may damage the equipment.

Where do you want to store your memories?

After your digitization session, the Memory Center will delete any personal file and information left behind. Make sure you’ve saved your memories to one of the below locations:

  • External drive, such as a thumb drive- the library offers 4 GB thumb drives for $3.50.

  • DVD- blank DVD’s may be purchased from the library for $1.00

  • Cloud Storage- such as Dropbox or Google

When do you want to digitize?

  • The Memory Center is only available during Library Hours, appointments must be made for Memory Center.

  • The digitization for video formats runs in “real time”: a 30 minute video will take 30 minutes + processing time to be digitized. Digitization time for movie formats will take 10x the video length: a 5 minute video will take 50 minutes + processing time to be digitized.

  • You are expected to remain in the Library for the entire digitization process.

What if I’m not a Queen Anne’s County resident? Can I still use the Memory Center?
Absolutely!

Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, the Memory Center is only available by appointment. Please call 410-758-0980 to reserve your time. Bookings for the Memory Center can be made up to two weeks in advance.

How much does it cost?
Free! This is just one of the many services that the library offers. We do sell blank DVDs and thumb drives at cost if you do not have your own.