Arlington's Retro Technology Lab Helps Residents Preserve Memories

Published on September 18, 2025

Arlington Public Library Retro Tech Lab

Rescue your precious memories trapped on outdated media in the Arlington Public Library's Retro Technology Lab! 

The George W. Hawkes Downtown Library location at 100 S. Center St. has equipment and expertise to help you digitize four kinds of video tapes, two type of audio cassettes, 8mm film, photos, negatives, slides, and more so you can preserve and share them.

To begin, request an appointment with library staff.

Book a Retro Tech Lab Appointment

What to Know:

  • Video and audio transfers occur in real-time, and you'll need to be present for the entire process.
  • The Library assumes no risk in potential damage to your old media, but all reasonable care will be taken.
  • Pack a USB stick or upload your new files to a cloud service.
  • To use the Retro Technology Lab, you must be an Arlington Public Library cardholder.

What Can I Digitize?

  • Home movies
  • Photographs
  • VHS tapes
  • Cassette tapes
  • Film
  • Floppy Disks

Drop-in help is available from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays on a first-come, first-served basis. If additional time is needed, the Library will help you schedule an appointment. 

Special thanks to the Arlington Genealogical Society for providing the major funding for this initiative.

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