The University Archives recently was awarded NDSU Student Government Capital Projects funding to scan and create intelligent PDFs, with full text search capabilities, of issues of the Spectrum student newspaper, from its inception in December 1896 to spring 1950.

“This rich history of NDAC/NDSU provides details into the growth and development of the college students and faculty, campus activities and events, controversies, sports and many other areas,” explained Michael Robinson, archivist.

The project is expected to be completed by mid-summer 2011, and there will be free access to all interested parties. The information previously was available only on microfilm at the Institute for Regional Studies and University Archives located at the Skills and Technology Training Center, 1305 19th Ave. N.

Robinson said ArcaSearch, a firm in Paynesville, Minn., has already picked up the hard copy, and they will host the site the first year. After that, the NDSU Libraries will host the site.

According to Robinson, details on the URL and other pertinent information will be announced to the campus, as the project is completed. For additional information, contact Robinson at michael.robinson@ndsu.edu or 1-1017.