While digital repositories are not a new concept, they originated as online versions of physical collections. Use was limited by publication and document type options, and collections remained underutilized. Our universities seek more dynamic relationships with both on-campus and global communities. By partnering with local and campus organizations and researchers, the digital repository allows access to a variety of materials and provides leverage for growing open access and archival collections with the potential for world-wide outreach. Our session includes representatives from two institutions (one a large, urban, state institution, and the other a small, rural, private university) that are on a mission to achieve similar goals. Acknowledging that schools of different sizes encounter unique issues, we will explore advantages/disadvantages of staffing and funding, and provide advice regarding building partnerships, providing metadata, and navigating copyright concerns.
