[gmku]

I've talked to archivists here at the U library and they're always very concerned about this very thing--about the "playback" technology outpacing the media. It's a real problem. They're doing things like trying to keep at least one piece of predominant old technology going--e.g., old reel to reels for tape, Beta machines, VHS machines, etc., so there will always be equipment for outdated formats. Of course, that gets tougher and tougher--where do you find replacment parts for those outmoded machines, for example. They also try to transfer as much as possible from old formats to new, but that's a constant struggle, too.