INFO 6800 Archives (Winter 2013) – Archival Appraisal Exercise | 1

INFO 6800 Archives – February 11, 2013 Week Six Archival Appraisal Exercise

Introduction The purpose of this exercise is to provide an opportunity to apply archival appraisal

theory to actual archival materials. Students will form groups and conduct mini mock

appraisals on various archival materials.

Instructions

1) Form groups of 5-6

2) Get documentation about the records and familiarize yourself with the creator

3) Rotate through each group of records, spending 10-15 minutes with each group

4) Sort though and evaluate the files in the box

5) Discuss the archival value of the records with your group

6) You may wish to approach the task by asking a series of questions:

a) Do the records document the primary functions, activities, and

transactions of the creator?

b) Do the records have informational or evidentiary value?

c) Are there items in the file that do not have archival value?

d) Are the materials original? Can you verify their authenticity?

e) What is the condition of the materials? What will it cost to preserve the

materials?

f) Are there items in the file that were not created by the creator of the

fonds?

g) Does the fonds fit the collection policy of the University Archives?

h) What kind of recommendations would you make in an appraisal report?

7) Jot down your group’s findings and discuss with class