Archival Basics: A Practical Manual for Working with Historical Collections (American Association for State and Local History) - Hardcover

Arp, Charlie

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1538104547 ISBN 13: 9781538104545

Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2019

Synopsis

Archival Basics for Historic Record Collections is an introduction to the concepts, policies, infrastructure and tasks needed to collect, preserve and make archival collections available to researchers. The book is based on content presented in workshops by the Council of State Archivists and presented in an on-line course by the American Association of State and Local History since 2003. Arp focuses on the discreet tasks necessary to manage archival collections. This is a practical, how-to book on managing archival collections designed for those who have responsibility for such collections but lack formal archival training.
The book begins by defining historic records, archival collections and the differences between archives, libraries and museums while identifying the steps needed to manage archival collections. It then looks at collecting archival items including creating a collections policy, documenting the acquisition of archival items and the steps needed to bring those items into an archives. It discusses arranging, preserving and describing archival collections so researchers can find the information they seek. Next, it goes over what is needed to store, protect, and make archival collections available to researchers. The last chapters contemplates the policies, skills and infrastructure needed to successfully manage digital records and looks at creating digital copies of analog records to promote their use.
The book provides templates, questionnaires and examples to enable the reader to create customized archival policies and procedures that accommodate the particular circumstances they find themselves in. The book also contains exercises and quizzes designed to reinforce the retention and understanding of critical concepts. In addition to examples it has lists of additional resources so those who want more detailed information on particular topics can find it. This book is not the only reference book needed by those doing archival work, but it should be the first book they need.

About this title

About the Author

Charlie Arp has a BA and MA in history from Ohio University where he specialized in archival studies. From 1991 to 2003 he worked at the Ohio History Society where he held a variety of positions including Head of Reference, Assistant State Archivist and State Archivist. In 2003 Charlie was hired by the Battelle Memorial Institute as Enterprise Content Manager. In 2015 he tested and validated the use of an electronic management program to enable Battelle to use electronic records as part of submissions to the FDA. In early 2016 Charlie started an archival and records management consulting firm.

Review

Archival Basics is a must-read for those entering or new to archival institutions. This book provides a common-sense approach that clearly explains collecting, preserving, and making archival records, including digital collections, available to researchers. Access to 13 digital files allows the reader to customize fundamental policies and forms necessary for archival operations. (Barbara Teague, Executive Director, Council of State Archivists)

This book serves as a highly experienced and knowledgeable guide to core principles and best practices that are essential to providing appropriate care for the archives and historical records that are the foundation for understanding ourselves, our society, and our country. Read this book, then “just do it.” (Kathleen D. Roe, New York State Archives (retired), Director of Archives and Records Management)

Edition details

• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Publication date: 2019
• ISBN 10: 1538104547
• ISBN 13: 9781538104545
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 354