File Formats and File Sizes

SCOLR allows the upload of any discrete file formats including audio, video, text and image files. Additionally, media can be streamed from third-party services like YouTube or Vimeo. PDF-A format is preferred for text documents. Other text formats will be converted to PDF-A prior to uploading to the public site. Files should not be larger than 2 GB. If a submission is larger than this, the depositor should consult with library staff before submission.

Preservation of File Formats

As per section XI of the SCOLR Guidelines, the Selkirk College Library will use standard data management practices to protect the items stored in SCOLR. The database will be backed up regularly and will be kept secure against unauthorized deletion or modification.
The Selkirk College Library will take all possible steps to assure continuing access to items deposited in SCOLR. Every item deposited will remain retrievable from the repository. However, computer files depend on the availability of the appropriate software to render the functions and appearance intended by the file’s creator; over time older software applications may no longer function on new computer platforms, leaving the files created with those applications inoperable. The level of access that the Library can assure to items stored in SCOLR may therefore range from preservation of the full functionality an appearance of the original file to preservation of the mere bit stream with no assurance that the file’s original functionality or appearance can be recreated.
In general, files created with open or non-proprietary software offer the greatest likelihood that their functionality and appearance can continue to be rendered as computer environments change. Faculty and other creators of digital content are urged to carefully consider the implications of choosing one or another file format or software application, and to balance the importance of the functions provided by a software application against the importance of being able to preserve those functions over a period of years or decades. The Library identifies three level of support for the various digital file types in SCOLR.

• Preferred: This is the preferred file type used by SCOLR.
• Supported: We support this file type. There is a high likelihood that its content, appearance, and functions will be preserved over time.
• Known: We recognize this format but cannot guarantee its support over time.

Text Formats

Spreadsheet Formats

Presentation Formats

Graphic Formats

Audio Formats

Video Formats

If a file type is not listed here, please contact SCOLR Administration.