Michael Moss on Archives

Book excerpt: Michael Moss on Archives brings together selected outputs from an internationally renowned archival scholar, who explored the theory and practice of archives and records management. Comprising a selection of 11 of Moss’ most significant archival writings, the book demonstrates the development of his thinking in archival theory and practice over the past 20 years. Michael Moss was a towering figure in modern archival writing and was able to push the boundaries of the discipline, notably with his analysis of how modern governments create records and his speculations about the future of the archive in the digital world. Bringing together in one place Moss’ most significant writings, alongside a comprehensive bibliography, this book documents a significant contribution to British and international archival theory and practice. Each essay is preceded by a critical introduction, written by a leading archival scholar, assessing the piece and setting it in a wider archival or historical context, while an overall introduction by the editors provides biographical information and describes the development of Michael’s archival thinking. Michael Moss on Archives will be of interest to scholars and students engaged in the study of archival science, library and information science, history, digital humanities, and media studies. It should also be of interest to professionals who work in archives and records management.