The KB has included the text of the Dutch-language Wikipedia in its archive. This involves the text from about 2.2 million articles. A selection of 'top articles' designated by the Wiki community itself will also be archived in full.
Wikipedia as a source
As a library, the KB is tasked with preserving the heritage of the Netherlands for future generations. Wikipedia is an interesting source for this because the changing articles over the years reflect changes in knowledge and society's thinking. The site also gives a good impression of the information we have on almost every possible topic. Wikipedia is also an indispensable resource for linguists. But in these times of polarisation, disinformation and chatbots, Wikipedia is coming under increased pressure. All the more reason for the KB to safeguard the information found on the Dutch-language Wikipedia for generations to come.
The KB web collection
Ideally, the KB would like to include all of the Dutch-language Wikipedia. But this is just not feasible due to its sheer size, structure and massive amounts of visual material. It was therefore decided to include only the texts and changes without further formatting. Even this so-called database dump is already over 50 GB.
In addition, 378 'featured articles' were included in full, including photos and videos. These, often very comprehensive, articles are highly regarded by the Wiki community and meet certain standards. For example, you will find articles on everything from Johan Cruijff to bumblebees.
The future
These two strategies preserve a representative picture of Dutch-language Wikipedia. All texts and changes are retrieved annually via the database dump. The showcase items are also added every year. In this way, the Web Collection illustrates how this important data source changes over time.
Wikipedia entries included in the Web Collection will be available for consultation in the KB reading room in a few months' time. Those interested in the database dump should contact @email.
Wikimedia Nederland
Wikimedia Nederland, the association that supports volunteers and organisations with their contributions to Wikimedia projects such as Wikipedia, welcomes this initiative by the KB.
"Including a representative image of Wikipedia in the KB Web Collection recognises the importance of free knowledge and safeguards the work of countless volunteers. It’s a fantastic initiative!”
Sandra Rientjes, director of Wikimedia Nederland
