The digitization of bibliographical treasure is a valuable means through which rare books and manuscripts can be discovered, studied, appreciated, and enjoyed. Digitization, combined with online publication, gives easy access to texts from anywhere in the world. Ease of access to rare materials is a boon, as is ease of discoverability. Digitization is also a technique of conservation. The case for digitizing early and precious materials is obvious, particularly for especially delicate books that cannot be handled without endangering them.
