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Definition
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An archival unit that can be distinguished from a group and that is complete in itself.
A level of arrangement.
Source: Canadian Council of Archives. Appendix D: Glossary. http://archivescanada.ca/uploads/files/Publications/RADComplete_July2008.pdf.
Introduction
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In archival description, the term file refers to a level of arrangement.
The Canadian Rules for Archival Description , Glossary. Ottawa: Canadian Council of Archives (2008).
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(RAD) recognizes the following levels of arrangement:
Each level of arrangement has a corresponding level of description (i.e., levels of description are determined by levels of arrangement). According to RAD Principle P5.0:
The description of any unit of material will reflect its unique pattern of arrangement. For instance, records arranged as a fonds or collection might be described using multiple levels to represent both the whole and its parts. In the case of a discrete item, the description would reflect only a single level of arrangement.
Items are typically individual documents, manuscripts, photographs, or reports found within files. Items are rarely described at the item-level, but it is increasingly common, particularly when archival material is digitized.
Related terms
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Collection
Finding aid