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The purpose of this paper is to research the approach of memory institutions to collaboration by analysing collaboration patterns in the networks developed in digitisation initiatives.

Qualitative and quantitative content analysis of the comments about partners and contractors made by respondents of the NUMERIC survey on the progress of digitisation in European cultural institutions was performed. Several attributes of collaborative networks of memory institutions were analysed: their size, members by type of organisation, and visibility of collaborators of particular type. Additionally, comparative analysis of collaborative networks of archives, libraries and museums was carried out.

Memory institutions did not approach collaboration strategically. They exhibited a low engagement in collaboration and focused on establishing resource‐sharing networks. Many of them established networks with the institutions of the same type.

The number of archives which provided comments about their networks was much fewer than the number of libraries and museums. It suggests that additional research on archives and their networks is needed to obtain more reliable data.

The results of this research are useful for managers responsible for digitisation initiatives, evaluating and revising collaboration strategies; professional associations, governmental and advisory bodies working with memory institutions for planning, and providing support and advice in digitisation.

The results of this research would be relevant for professional associations, governmental and advisory bodies, working with memory institutions.