This project will preserve and expand access to maui's photographic collections through a comprehensive digitization and metadata enhancement initiative that strengthens library and archival services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded $147,200 to the Maui Historical Society (operating as Bailey House Museum) on October 1, 2026, under the Native American and Native Hawaiian Library Services program (CFDA 45.311) to digitize and enhance access to Maui's photographic collections through a comprehensive preservation initiative.

The project will create high-quality digital surrogates for thousands of photographic items through a combination of outsourced digitization and in-house scanning, supported by acquisition of scanning equipment and archival supplies. Project staff will enhance collection metadata, implement digital storage and backup infrastructure, and collaborate with the University of Hawai'i Museum Consortium to improve collections care practices, shared data management standards, and student engagement. Deliverables include preserved digital surrogates, enhanced collection records, and systems for long-term access and stewardship. Expected outcomes are increased discoverability of collections, reduced barriers to accessing cultural resources, and strengthened preservation of fragile original materials for Maui researchers, educators, students, cultural practitioners, community members, and the broader Native Hawaiian diaspora.

Performance takes place in Wailuku, Hawaii, with a period of performance from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027.

Funding will support the creation of high-quality digital masters for thousands of photographic items, including outsourced digitization of a portion of the collection and in-house digitization of remaining materials, and acquisition of scanning equipment and archival supplies. Project activities include staff-led project oversight and metadata enhancement and implementation of digital storage and backup infrastructure. The organization will collaborate with the university of hawai'i museum consortium to improve collections care practices, shared data management standards, and student engagement. Deliverables include preserved digital surrogates, enhanced collection records, and improved systems for long-term access and stewardship. Expected outcomes include increased discoverability and responsible sharing of these collections, reduced barriers to accessing cultural resources, and strengthened preservation of fragile original materials. Primary beneficiaries include maui researchers, educators, students, cultural practitioners, community members, and the broader native hawaiian diaspora.