The OC Memory Lab is a space for free do-it-yourself digitization of photos, documents, audiovisual recordings, and other formats.

The mobile version of this lab will be scheduled at the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library from 9/7 to 9/17.

Staff will offer an equipment introduction on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 4:00PM.  For those already familiar with the mobile unit, you may proceed with reservations.

Getting started:

• Must have an active library card.
• Bring your keepsakes along with your own storage device (a USB or external hard drive) to store your digitized projects.
• It's a do-it-yourself model, meaning we provide step-by-step instructions, and you control the process from start to finish.
• Reservations are booked for a maximum of 3 hours per day from Sunday, September 7 to Wednesday, September 17. 
• A waiver must be signed and submitted to the service desk on the 2nd floor; the hyperlink provides access to the waiver on the second page, so please disregard the first page as it details specific equipment at the Tustin Library stationary lab that may not be part of the mobile lab.  Waivers can be obtained at the service desk on the 2nd floor.  
• The OC Memory Lab is designated for users ages 13 and older.  Children ages 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.
• Visit the 2nd floor service desk to book your reservation.

How does it work?  Digital Preservation Workshop

Please see the OC Memory Lab webpage for policies, equipment pdf instructions and videos here.

Available equipment: 

• VHS converter
• Scanner
• Cassette deck
• 3.5" Floppy disk drive
• 8 mm & super 8 film converter
• DV & Mini DV deck