Description
Book SynopsisArchivists and archival institutions are reappraising and deaccessioning now more than ever before. Archival reappraisal and deaccessioning have become vital tools for managing archival collections. Reappraisal and Deaccessioning in Archives and Special Collections is the first book dedicated entirely to the topic of reappraising and deaccessioning in special collections and archives. This edited volume features 13 chapters offering informed opinions, practical recommendations, and valuable examples for reappraising and deaccessioning. Readers will gain important insight into the most important element of reappraisal and deaccessioning: decision-making. Through mostly case studies, the chapters address important issues inherent in these practices including: ethical concerns, donor relations, appraisal questions, and disposition options. The case studies cover collaborative and solo projects, various material types such as manuscripts, records, and artifacts, and a range of scenarios from major projects involving thousands of linear feet of material to ad hoc projects removing single items. Chapter topics include: weeding vs. deaccessioning, getting rid of contaminated materials, donor-driven deaccessioning, and using reappraisal and deaccessioning to improve access to existing collections. Readers will find beneficial information on streamlining workflows, carrying out procedures, creating policies, and implementing these practices locally. Additionally, the chapters cover the intricacies of disposition options, such as transferring to other institutions, returning material to donors, and destruction. This volume can serve as a valuable resource for large and small repositories, experienced and novice archivists, and those working with manuscript and archive collections.
Trade ReviewThis book should reassure doubters that reappraisal and deaccessioning can be successful and even delightful when it results in better support for collections and access for patrons. The chapters provide an instructive, sometimes entertaining, picture of what happens when an institution commits to separating from some of its holdings. -- D. Claudia Thompson, Arrangement & Description Manager, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming
Reappraisal and deaccessioning are essential functions of archival practice as we stride to develop sustainable and relevant collections in service to society. By bringing together professionally diverse perspectives that reflect on the value and challenges associated with reappraisal and deaccessioning, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about these foundational practices. -- Matthew R. Francis, Archivist, Ohio Northern University
Deaccessioning has become an essential management tool with the power to move institutions towards achieving sustainability. These case studies demonstrate that SAA deaccessioning guidelines work in the hands of archivists who are not only willing to question backlogs and legacy practices but also brave enough to create a path forward. -- Linda Whitaker, Former Director of Library and Archives, Arizona Historical Society
Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1. Good Intentions: Distinguishing Deaccessioning from Weeding Marcella Huggard Chapter 2. Developing a Set of Principles for Deaccessioning in the Archives Sue Luftschein and Steve Hanson Chapter 3. Deaccessioning in Hybrid Archives and Museum Collections at the University of Florida John Nemmers, Matthew Armstrong, Elizabeth Bouton, Kristin Conwill, and Lourdes Santamaría-Wheeler Chapter 4. Clear Policies, Full Transparency, Can’t Lose: Reappraisal and Deaccessioning at UCLA University Archives Katharine Lawrie Chapter 5. Burns Like Prairie Fire: Improving Access to University Records through Reappraisal Cliff Hight Chapter 6. Improving Access to Ontario’s Documentary Heritage: Deaccessioning at the Archives of Ontario Emily Chicorli, Aaron Hope, and Sean Smith Chapter 7. Implementing a Reappraisal Workflow at the State Archives of North Carolina Carie Chesarino and Kelly Policelli Chapter 8. Big, Bad, and Boring: The Comptroller’s Collection at the NYC Municipal Archives Todd Gilbert and Rachel Greer Chapter 9. Reappraisal and Deaccessioning: Applying ‘a dangerous practice’ in New Zealand Elizabeth Charlton Chapter 10. A Gentleman’s Agreement: Donor-driven Deaccessioning and Ethics of Collecting Adriana Cuervo Chapter 11. “Your Cooperation Has Been Splendid in this Matter”: Returning a Selected Portion of a Living Donor’s Personal Papers Ruth Bryan Chapter 12. So Happy Apart: Stewarding a Collection to its Ideal Institution Vin Novara Chapter 13. The Deaccession and Transfer of the KOVR-TV News Film Collection Dylan McDonald and Julie Thomas
