I. Introduction to the London 2012 Olympic Games and its Knowledge Legacy
The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, hosted by the UK, generated a vast amount of content and knowledge. This thesis explores the efforts by the British Library and other memory institutions to archive and preserve this knowledge legacy. The awarding of the Games to London in 2005 was a significant moment, marking the first time a city hosted the Games three times. The contrast between the wealth of information generated and the fragmented records from previous Games highlighted the need to capture and document this important sports mega-event content.
1.1 The Archive and the Games
The archive is a record of human experience, while the Games represent a significant event in global sports. The intersection of these two entities is the focus of this thesis.
1.2 The Knowledge Legacy
The knowledge legacy of the Games encompasses both official and independent knowledge, including operational knowledge, legacy claims, new research insights, and unofficial documentation generated by the public.
II. Memory Studies and Memory Institutions
This section delves into memory studies and the role of memory institutions in preserving and disseminating knowledge. It discusses the collective memory studies, the concept of cultural heritage, and the evolution of memory institutions in the digital age.
2.1 Collective Memory Studies
Collective memory studies explore how groups remember and forget, with a focus on the social construction of memory.
2.2 Memory Institutions in the Digital Age
In the digital age, memory institutions face challenges and opportunities in preserving and providing access to digital content.
III. Archiving the London 2012 Olympic Games
This section focuses on the specific attempts made by the British Library and other memory institutions to archive the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It discusses the factors influencing the collection, storage, and dissemination of the Games' knowledge legacy.
3.1 Factors Influencing Archiving
Factors such as funding, attitudes towards sport and archives, digital literacy, and the value of content beyond sport impact the archiving process.
3.2 Early Intervention and Custody of Content
Early intervention and obtaining custody of content are crucial for memory institutions to provide a useful knowledge legacy for sports mega-events.
IV. The Role of the British Library in Archiving the Games
This section examines the British Library's role in archiving the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It discusses the library's approach to sport and its efforts to capture and document important sports mega-event content.
4.1 The British Library s Approach to Sport
The British Library's approach to sport is influenced by its role as a national library and its commitment to collecting and preserving the UK's cultural heritage.
4.2 Capturing and Documenting Sports Mega Events
The library's efforts to capture and document important sports mega-event content involve various strategies, including collecting official documentation, monitoring social media, and engaging with the public.
