Scalable Vector Graphics

Action Plan: Scalable Vector Graphics

Last Updated 4/14/2014

Description:  Scalable Vector Graphics or SVG is a vector image format based on XML. It was developed in the late 1990s as an open standard and was released in 2001. SVG files are also capable of animations, though they are rarely used for that purpose.

Codec: The most common version is 1.1. A follow-up, SVG 2.0 is being developed by the World Wide Web Consortium.

Software:  Inkscape,  SVG - Edit, others , SVG files can also be created or edited using text editors.

Long Term Preservation Plan:  SVG has become a standard in vector graphics editing. It is the #1 preferred vector image format used at LC (Library of Congress - Recommended Format Specifications 3/7/2014). SVG files should be retained.

Division Specific Notes: LC currently has little to no experience with SVG files.

Review in two years (2016)