It is a known fact that disks such as CD and DVD do have a finite life span of about 10 years. Usually they last longer, but there are times when they will break down. However, you can always burn the digital copy to a disk, lable it and put it away as a back up.
I've seen HDD's last about 20 years and have seen them crap out right out of the wrapper as a computer technician. I've also seen the same with compact disks, though they usually do last longer. Best to have multiple back ups.
