National Digital Information Infrastructure and Preservation Program (NDIIPP) of the Library of Congress, has launched a pilot program to test cloud technologies for preserving digital content. The pilot will focus on using a new service, DuraCloud, developed and hosted by the DuraSpace Foundation.
Cloud technologies use remote computers to provide local services through the Internet. Duracloud will let an institution provide data storage and access without having to maintain its own dedicated technical infrastructure.

Among the NDIIPP partners participating in the pilot program are the New York Public Library and the Biodiversity Heritage Library. The test will cover both storage and access services, including content replication and monitoring services that span multiple cloud-storage providers.

DuraCloud is aimed at helping institutions and individuals take advantage of cloud technologies in providing access to their digital materials. DuraCloud is focused on providing trusted solutions for organizations such as universities, libraries, cultural heritage organizations, research centres and others who are concerned with ensuring perpetual access to their digital content.