Dictionary of Archival Terminology
Use this to get definitions of terms relating to archives. Entries include examples of usage, citations, and links to related terms.
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Definitions of archives, archivists, and the work they do by the Society of American Archivists.
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Guidelines for the Careful Handling of Documents
Introduction to how to physically work with historical documents from the Georgia Archives.
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Storing Family Papers and Photographs
An introductory guide to how to certain store historical materials from the National Archives. Although it is aimed at personal or family papers, the guidance also works well for organizations holding historical materials.
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Guidance from the Society of American Archivists on the paperwork needed when accepting a donation of historical materials to your repository.
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Selecting and Appraising Archives and Manuscripts
Book by F. Gerald Ham, 1993. Part of the Society of American Archivists' Archival Fundamental Series, it provides a basic introduction to archives collection building.
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Archival Accessioning Best Practices [draft]
Created by the National Best Practices for Archival Accessioning Working Group, this draft document lays out things to consider before taking custody of material, bringing material into your repository, arranging and describing it, and creating accession records. It also has a detailed bibliography and resources list in Appendix D.
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ACRL/RBMS Guidelines Regarding the Security of Special Collections Materials
Guidelines for increasing the security of your collections and reducing the likelihood of theft.
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Pocket Response Plan™ PReP ™ Templates
Disaster planning for your organization from the Council of State Archivists, specifically a template for documenting key information for use by staff in the event of an emergency. Designed originally for state government agencies, but adaptable for any organization.
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NEDCC 24/7 Collections Emergency Hotline
"NEDCC staff members are available 24/7 to provide telephone advice to institutions and individuals handling collection-related disasters. Information provided includes advice on drying wet collections and dealing with damage from fire, pests, and mold. This service does not include on-site assistance."
Call 1-855-245-8303
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National Heritage Responders Public Help Line
Advice from the American Institute for Conservation for collection-related disasters. Available to help beginners.
Institutions whose collections have been affected by an emergency should call 202-661-8068
Non-urgent inquiries can be sent to emergencies@culturalheritage.org
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An excellent resource from the Image Permanence Institute for identifying different kinds of photographs and prints.
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A National Archives guide to figuring out what kind of audio formats you have in your collection.
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Identifying Motion Picture Film Formats
A National Archives guide to figuring out what type of motion picture film you have in your collection
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A National Archives guide to figuring out what kind of video tapes you have in your collection.
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Managing Archival and Manuscript Repositories
Book by Thomas Wilsted and William Nolte, 1991. Part of the Society of American Archivists' Archival Fundamental Series, an introductory text on managing repositories, including sections on human resources, budgeting, facilities, fundraising, and public relations.
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Best Practices for Volunteers in Archives
Guidelines from the Society of American Archivists on managing volunteer programs, including ethics considerations.
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Student Assistants in Archival Repositories: A Handbook for Managers
Guidance from the College and University Archives Section of the Society of American Archivists on supervising student employees, which can also be relevant to volunteers or other kinds of staff.
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