Do Archives Have Value?

Book excerpt: This book will explore ways of establishing value in the archives by using a variety of methodologies and exploring a range of contexts. In the United Kingdom DCMS uses various valuation matrices to allocate resources, whilst other organizations both internationally and domestically (such as local authorities and universities) are following suit. In some contexts in the UK, other developed countries, and particularly developing countries, archives have an evidential value to redress grievances and to assist in the fight against fraud and corruption. The retention of records for evidential value demands the retention of case papers relating to individuals that until now have not normally been retained. As more and more record keeping becomes digital, costs of preservation will inevitably increase which makes developing methodologies to justify additional costs urgent, particularly in poorly resourced developing countries which have been encouraged to go digital by aid agencies and donor countries. This book will be useful reading for professional archivists and students on archival studies courses. In the wider world of cultural heritage valuation is of increasing importance in justifying services and bidding for scant resources. As a result, Do Archives Have Value? will also be of interest to senior management with oversight of libraries and museums, owners of collections and external funders.