Author(s): Michael Moss; David Thomas

Reference

This book will explore ways of establishing value in the archives byusing a variety of methodologies and exploring a range of contexts.

In the United Kingdom DCMS uses various valuation matrices to allocateresources, whilst other organizations both internationally and domestically (suchas local authorities and universities) are following suit. In some contexts inthe UK, other developed countries, and particularly developing countries,  archives have an evidential value to redressgrievances and to assist in the fight against fraud and corruption. Theretention of records for evidential value demands the retention of case papersrelating to individuals that until now have not normally been retained. As moreand more record keeping becomes digital, costs of preservation will inevitablyincrease which makes developing methodologies to justify additional costsurgent, particularly in poorly resourced developing countries which have been encouragedto go digital by aid agencies and donor countries.

This book will be useful reading for professional archivists andstudents on archival studies courses. In the wider world of cultural heritagevaluation is of increasing importance in justifying services and bidding forscant resources. As a result, Do Archives Have Value? will also be ofinterest to senior management with oversight of libraries and museums, ownersof collections and external funders.