Finns to use open access digital heritage content

Open data and emerging digital tools allow for the creative use, sharing, editing and construction of cultural identities. For digital natives - the generation born to the internet age and the era of Finnish EU membership - an open world, unlimited creative freedom and new digital tools are taken for granted. But what does this major transition mean and require from decision-makers in the field of culture, media and education? And how has it changed Finnish, and in turn European culture?

 

These new forms of culture of the new internet age will be discussed on 25 February during a breakfast seminar 'The European culture in the new internet age: Open knowledge and digital natives'. The event is organised in conjunction with the National Library, Europeana and the Strategic Research Agency Wevolve. Participants in the discussion include thought leaders from the cultural sector, digitally native thinkers and doers, decision-makers and representatives of the media to reflect on the new possibilities and meanings of the culture of the new internet age for citizens, cultural organisations, the media, creative industries and society. 

 

Jill Cousins, Executive Director of Europeana says, ‘The creative industries make an important and exciting contribution to Europe's economy and they are a vital part of its future. Supporting this sector means providing what it needs - quality content and inspiration.  Europeana can help with both, thereby supporting innovation. Anyone, from members of the public to those working in the creative industries, can now explore Europe's cultural heritage through Europeana. They can use it, save it, share it or play with it creatively – or even build their own services, apps or games.'

 

The National Library and Europeana are also cooperating  with the national Media Literacy Week, to be held in more than 1,400 Finnish schools , youth centres and libraries from 10-14 February. During the week, new stories will be created using open access Europeana content and digital platforms such as Pinterest, utilising the meme tradition of digital natives for creative learning.