This paper describes the experience gained at the University of Padova Library System on modelling, creation, management and preservation of digital collections with Phaidra, the Digital Asset Management tool created and developed by the University of Vienna, for GLAM institutions (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums). There is also an examination of the motivations and strategies for creating a model for the presentation of the collections aimed at enhancing the cultural heritage of libraries, archives and museums of the University and local partners (Ca' Foscari University of Venice and Università Iuav di Venezia) and intended for use by a specialised audience as well as by the general public. Future challenges include the repository certification and the enrichment of the search functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]