Collecting, Storing and Preserving – Which Knowledge Is Vital?

This documentary explores the challenges and methods involved in preserving knowledge, data, and objects for future generations. It examines the criteria for determining what information is vital to retain and the evolving strategies for long-term storage in an era of increasing data volume.

The program investigates various approaches to preservation, from traditional physical archives to advanced technological solutions. It features Karl de Smedt, a sourdough librarian who maintains a collection of sourdough starters, and details the extensive archiving efforts of the German National Library, which preserves physical and digital media. The documentary also highlights emerging technologies such as DNA storage, developed by Professor Robert Grass at ETH Zurich, which offers a high-density, long-duration storage medium. Additionally, it examines the practical applications of biobanks, like BioBank Dresden, for research purposes, and the role of evidence rooms in legal contexts, such as the public prosecutor’s office in Frankfurt am Main.

Key Themes & Topics Examined

• The criteria for selecting knowledge and objects for preservation.
• Challenges associated with the increasing volume of data and information.
• Traditional methods of archiving, including physical libraries and collections.
• Innovative storage technologies, such as DNA data storage.
• The role of specialized archives in cultural, scientific, and legal domains.
• The implications of digital preservation, including data migration and obsolescence.

Archival & Investigative Sources

• The German National Library in Leipzig and Frankfurt.
• The sourdough collection maintained by Karl de Smedt in St. Vith, Belgium.
• Research on DNA storage conducted by Professor Robert Grass at ETH Zurich.
• BioBank Dresden, which stores biological samples for research.
• The evidence room of the public prosecutor’s office in Frankfurt am Main.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central question addressed by the documentary?

The documentary addresses the question of how to effectively collect, store, and preserve vital knowledge, data, and objects for future generations, considering the vast amount of information generated today.

What are some of the diverse items being preserved?

The documentary showcases the preservation of sourdough starters, books, records, media, tumor samples, blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and evidence from criminal offenses.

What technological advancement is presented as a promising storage solution?

DNA storage, developed by Professor Robert Grass, is presented as a promising storage medium due to its high capacity, longevity (over 1,000 years), and readability.