Abstract: Described herein are lightboxes and methods of use for the digital preservation of historical collections. The lightbox includes abase, the base having a grid visible on at least one surface of the base, and a plurality of walls extending above and substantially perpendicular to the base. A support platform having an aperture therein is located within the plurality of walls and above the base and is secured in the lightbox via a height adjustment mechanism. A cover is positioned above the base and below the support platform and secured in the lightbox via one or more hinge mechanisms One or more lighting elements are positioned along one or more walls of the lightbox, each lighting element including at least one light.