The Research Committee of the Special Account for Research Funds (ELKE) of the University of Ioannina, in collaboration with DOTSOFT S.A., is moving forward with the implementation of the project “Digitisation of the Library, Archives and Museums of the Music and Literary Association of Arta ‘O Skoufas’,” which is funded under the “Digital Transformation 2021–2027” Operational Programme.

The total budget of the project amounts to €954,800.00 and covers digitisation services, software development, procurement of equipment, development of interactive systems, and staff training.

The project focuses on safeguarding, highlighting, and digitally presenting the historical and cultural assets of the Association, one of the key cultural heritage institutions of Arta.

A wealth of cultural material for digitisation

The project will digitise an extensive and multifaceted collection of records, which includes:

• Rare books and archival material totaling over 200,000 pages from the Library
• 40 paintings and 4 sculptures from the Art Gallery
• Over 300 photographs and dozens of items from the Theatre Department
• Over 500 historical museum objects, including images, lithographs, sculptures, documents, and albums from the Historical Museum
• 400+ λαογραφικά αντικείμενα, παραδοσιακές ενδυμασίες και βίντεο από το Λαογραφικό Μουσείο

In addition, to create a comprehensive virtual museum, 360° photography will be carried out across all three museum spaces.

The main actions of the project include:

1. Digitisation and documentation

• Digitisation of library, archival and museum records.
• Detailed documentation of the entire collection by specialised scientific personnel.

2. Development of digital infrastructure

• Creation of a digital preservation repository for secure and long-term storage.
• Design and development of an integrated Unified Presentation Platform – “Virtual Association” for digital exhibitions and an online museum.

3. Virtual & augmented reality experiences (VR/AR)

• Development of a virtual exhibition space (Virtual Museum).
• Creation of three virtual reality experiences:
  • “The Legend of the Bridge”
  • “Traditional Crafts of Arta”
  • Additional VR/AR digital storytelling experiences.
• Procurement of virtual reality headsets for immersive experiences.

4. Interactive cultural interpretation systems

• Installation of an interactive wall with a laser projection system and motion sensors.
• Creation of a 3D map using projection mapping.
• Creation of an interactive display case with a transparent touchscreen and modern digital interpretation tools.

A project with a strong cultural impact

Upon its completion, the project will offer:

• Safeguarding and digital preservation of valuable cultural material.
• Showcasing the work and history of “SKOUFAS” through modern, accessible and interactive media.
• An enhanced experience for visitors, researchers and educational institutions.
• Enhancement of Arta’s cultural outreach and connection of local cultural heritage with new technologies.

About DOTSOFT S.A.

DOTSOFT S.A. is among the leading information and communications technology companies in Greece, specializing in the development and support of complex IT projects for both the public and private sectors. The company has extensive experience in the broad field of digital transformation and offers comprehensive solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of cities, thereby contributing to the development of smarter and more efficient urban environments.