The libraries of the state universities of Florida (SULC) hold significant research materials in their individual special collections which, when measured together, provide much more potential value than they do individually. In order to realize this value and provide it to our clientele as efficiently and effectively as (fiscally) possible, a task force made up of special collections personnel from each of the state universities will address the issues most relevant to success. Because contemporary expectations require (and desire) access to information electronically, a major component of any successful program centered on special collections must include digitization of resources. In this regard the chair of the Digital Projects Planning Committee (DPPC) is also made an ex officio member of the SCTF. The SCTF will report to the CMC. The members of the SCTF will elect their own chair.

The committee is charged to:

• Consider establishing a template to describe the processed special collections within the SULC
• Create a checklist of processed vs. unprocessed collections within the SULC
• Create a list of "hidden" special collections within the SULC and establish state-wide priorities for processing
• Create a rationale/statement of purpose to address the need for additional assistance in processing the unprocessed collections
• Develop strategies for engaging administrators, academics, and library staff throughout the SULC (and its associated communities) to effect processing the backlog of unprocessed special collections
• Create a Special Collections portal which provides access, through a single search engine, to all Special Collections websites and holdings in the SULC. Consider expanding this portal to include all of Florida's institutions in the DCU.
• Assess the results and products of the recently completed LSTA grant
• Review issues of collection arrangement and description as precursor to digitization
• Once the components of the SULC special collections have been identified statewide, and then prioritized for importance to academic programs (both processed and unprocessed collections should be evaluated), establish a set of priorities for increased access through digitization projects
• Monitor granting agencies and investigate funding opportunities for digitization projects in addition to other SULC-based initiatives for addressing the processing needs
• Assist in construction of digitization projects and grant proposals
• Address the range of special collections preservation priorities throughout the SULC and establish a statewide directory of preservation specialists, specializations, and preservation services and facilities.