Many news organizations trumpeted the release of the World Digital Library on April 21st. John Billington, from the Library of Congress, with the help of UNESCO and other funders, succeeded in putting up an interesting interface that provides access to over 1,000 of the world’s precious documents of cultural history. Included are items from all continents, except Antarctica, which are old, beautiful, and high quality. You can zoom in on an ancient map or manuscript to get a good look and can experience it in seven languages.
It is an excellent example of what a digital library can do by providing access to items that some would never be able to see. This site will not substitute for a visit to the actual holders of the items but is a wonderful opportunity for those who can’t.
