Checklist for archival appraisals
The following checklist can be used in conjunction with the list of questions to ask during archival appraisal. The goal is to produce a thorough archival appraisal record to be retained as a permanent record of the Libraries.
Preliminary research and functional analysis
Very provenance by gathering and analyzing relevant information about the appraisal unit.
Specify the nature of the archival unit which the archival records comprise, e.g., fonds, series, file, item.
Determine whether the appraisal unit is archival in whole or in part (i.e., an accrual to an existing fonds)
Determine the creator(s) of the appraisal unit.
Conduct research into the creator’s primary functions or characteristic activities.
Draft a preliminary administrative history/biographical sketch of the creator.
Determine whether, and to what extent, the records reflect the context of their creation and use. Look for evidence of how the creator(s) used the records to carry out or document the function or activity concerned.
Content of appraisal unit
Determine the date(s) of creation of the material.
Determine the physical extent of the material.
Identify the genre and form of the material.
Evaluate the general physical condition of the material.
Consider whether specialized equipment is required to access the records.
Consider whether the records need to be converted to a preservation-quality medium (e.g., newspaper clippings).
Consider the administrative, historical, legal, fiscal, evidential, informational, and/or intrinsic value of the material.
Appraisal and selection
Identify the archival records selected for long-term preservation.
Identify the records not selected for long-term preservation.
Record the rationale for appraisal and selection decisions.
Complete archival appraisal record
Complete the draft archival appraisal record.
Review with archivist and revise as needed.
File completed appraisal records in relevant case file.
, multiple selections available,