(EMG Lecture) Introducing the Magnetic Media Crisis Committee (MMCC)

Formed in January 2025, the Magnetic Media Crisis Committee (MMCC), builds on the efforts of AMIA’s earlier Magnetic Tape Crisis Committee (2013–2016), which focused exclusively on videotape. The new iteration of the MMCC expands its scope to include audio formats as well, reflecting the broader and deepening crisis of magnetic media. With over 100 members representing more than 65 organizations across the GLAM sector, the MMCC fosters strategic collaboration, promotes adaptable workflows, and supports the exchange of practical solutions to respond to the rapidly evolving preservation landscape. With an emphasis on collaboration, the mission of the MMCC is rooted in sharing tacit knowledge and consolidating resources during this time of austerity. Members of the MMCC have begun working on a number of projects including gathering collective expertise on common chemicals used for cleaning, coordinating informal talks on technical areas of interest and DIY solutions, compiling a cookbook of tape baking recipes, providing feedback on open-source tools, facilitating relationships with hobbyists to assist with CRT maintenance, exploring techniques for better quality VHS transfers using S-Video and RF capture, as well as increasing global membership and representation through community outreach.