We are pleased to share that Internet Archive Canada (IAC), is now a signatory to the Our Future Memory statement. IAC joins IFLA and others in a global initiative affirming the rights of libraries, archives, and museums, and other memory institutions, to continue their essential public service missions in the digital age.
Standing for Digital Rights and Access
For generations, memory institutions have worked to collect, preserve, and provide access to knowledge. In the physical world, this work has long been protected and respected. But today, as more of our culture, history, and research is in digital form, these core activities are increasingly limited by outdated laws, restrictive licenses, and growing financial pressures.
The Our Future Memory statement is a call to action: The rights memory institutions have always had offline must also be protected online. This includes the ability to: share collections and collaborate across institutions; collect digital materials through digitization or purchase; preserve and back up digital content for long-term access; and provide controlled online access to users.
Without these rights, future generations risk losing access to the cultural and intellectual heritage that shapes our society.
Our Commitment
By joining this effort, Internet Archive Canada affirms our commitment to:
- Preserve Canada’s digital heritage for current and future generations;
- Support equitable access to information, regardless of geography or income;
- Stand with fellow institutions worldwide to defend the public’s right to knowledge.
Everyone deserves access to the building blocks of education, creativity, and civic life, and memory institutions must be empowered to fulfill their role in a world that is increasingly digital-first.
Read the full Our Future Memory statement in English or French
Listen to the podcast on Our Future Memory
Read the statement from IFLA