GitHub Archive Program (archiveprogram.github.com)

Article summary

The GitHub Archive Program aims to preserve open source software for future generations by storing a snapshot of every active public repository in a physical archive. The archive is stored in the GitHub Arctic Code Vault, located in a decommissioned coal mine in Norway. The program's goal is to ensure the long-term preservation of open source software, even in the event of a global catastrophe. The archive will be stored on hardened film designed to last for 1,000 years.

Main themes

• open source preservation
• data archiving
• GDPR and privacy
• append-only web
• historical preservation
• individual privacy rights

What commenters say

• Some commenters question the need for an opt-out option, given that public repositories are already publicly accessible.
• Others argue that having an opt-out option is essential, as 'public' does not necessarily mean 'stored forever'.
• There is debate about whether the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies to the offline snapshot of GitHub repositories.
• Some commenters believe that the web should be append-only, allowing for better archival and preservation of public data, while others disagree, citing the importance of being able to edit and delete published content.
• The idea of preserving public data for historical purposes raises questions about the balance between data preservation and individual privacy rights.
• Some argue that the physical nature of the archive, stored in a remote location, makes it unlikely to be accessed or used in the future, mitigating privacy concerns.
• Others point out that even if the physical archive is not easily accessible, an online copy of the data may still exist, potentially raising regulatory issues.