Starting an Archives - Paperback

by Elizabeth Yakel (Author)

Starting an Archives is designed for institutional administrators, archivists, and records managers thinking about beginning a historical records program in their organization. The book covers the decision making process which should precede the establishment of an archival program, outlines the first steps necessary in the beginning of an archival program, and introduces basic archival functions to readers. These functions include: archival administration, collection development, appraisal, records management, arrangement, description, reference, outreach, and preservation and facilities planning.

The book provides a theoretical rationale for the establishment of an archival program and discusses the managerial, financial, and administrative implications involved in beginning an archives. At the same time, however, it approaches the subject of starting an archives in a practical manner. There are clear descriptions of archival activities, samples of the important archival policy documents and forms, and a current bibliograohy which points to additional texts for further reference. Information on archival organizations is also included to help beginning archives locate and join local and national professional archival networks.

Author Biography

Elizabeth Yakel is a doctoral student in Information and Library Studies at the University of Michigan. She has worked as a professional archivist and consultant for over ten years, on such projects as the Vatican Archives Project, and the Religious Archives Technical Assistance Project, where she provided consultation services, taught archival workshops, and provided referral services for archivists in small religious and non-profit organizations.