Answered By: Ed
Last Updated: Mar 29, 2024     Views: 153

Please Note:  The Pennsylvania State Archives (PSA) collections (https://powerlibrary.org/psa/ and https://digitalarchives.powerlibrary.org/psa/) are distinct from PA Photos & Documents itself.  The PSA archives are a department of the PA Historical and Museum Commission and all questions related to PSA and its materials should be directed to: For specific information request forms and their fee schedule, please see: https://www.phmc.pa.gov/Archives/archives-forms/Pages/default.aspx

What is PA Photos and Documents (PaPD)?

  • In cooperation with other Pennsylvania agencies, the Office of Commonwealth Libraries is working toward universal access to digitized Pennsylvania historical materials
  • PaPD enables the storage and retrieval of digitized collections created by libraries and other organizations throughout Pennsylvania
  • The primary focus of PaPD is historic, cultural, and other collections of interest to the citizens of Pennsylvania
  • PaPD utilizes the Islandora open source platform to provide access to its collections, and is considered a “work in progress” as additional collections are added and new access points are created
  • Please note:  This FAQ is intended for public users of the service.  PaPD Collection Managers should contact the HSLC Digitization Specialist or local collection manager for all assistance requests.

 

How can the collection be accessed?

  • Access to the collection is available for free, without the need for a library card or other form of authentication
  • The primary access point for the repository is through the POWER Library PaPD Discovery page:

 

How can my organization participate?

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This project is made possible in part by Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Library Access funds administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed on these pages do not necessarily represent those of the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services or the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

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POWER Library - Pennsylvania's eLibrary
POWER Library is the online portal to all that Pennsylvania libraries offer. This is the place to find trustworthy answers to questions about healthcare, consumer purchases, personal finances, and much more. Enjoy 24/7 access to newspapers, magazines, journals, historical documents and photos, online databases, and eBooks. Research a subject. Learn about your family history. Locate a title. Explore career options. It’s all here at POWER Library.