Manx National Heritage’s online newspaper archive service may be secured for the future.
Last month, MNH revealed the serviced would be “temporarily” unavailable, from today (October 12). It was due to be switched off while other options were explored.
That led to concerns about its long-term future.
However, MNH at the weekend said the switch off may only be for parts of today as it tried out a short-term solution. It also thanked users for their outpouring of support when news of the archive’s uncertain future first broke.
Interim Solution
A spokesperson said: “Considerable work has continued to be undertaken to identify a solution to allow online access to be maintained.
“We remain fully committed to providing a sustainable, secure and affordable long-term future for the service.
“As a result of that work, we are now in a position to attempt to implement an interim technical solution which, if successful, will allow the service to remain available beyond October 12 while work continues on the longer-term solution.”
The spokesperson said MNH could not guarantee the interim solution would be successful.
“However, if it can be implemented as intended, users will continue to have access to the existing service on a temporary basis while we develop and implement the long-term solution.”
Offline Today
It does mean the server will be taken offline for extended periods between 10.30am and 4pm today (October 12), meaning intermittent access to service.
“These technical interventions are necessary in order to give the service the best possible chance of remaining available in the immediate term,” said the spokesperson.
“The outpouring of support and offers of help from people both on the Island, and around the world has been remarkable, and we would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who has taken the time to get in touch.
“The strength of feeling shown by users of our service has reinforced just how valued this resource is and highlighted the importance of us being able to secure a sustainable long-term solution.”