An introduction to the establishment of an archives at small institutions

Whether you are given the responsibility for your institution's archival materials or are planning to establish an archives, you'll need a basic understanding and some practical guidelines to get started. This paper addresses the needs of one-person libraries that have to administer and preserve records of enduring value of their parent institution. The initiation of an archival program involves an organization's ongoing commitment and support for the availability of unique groups of historical records. With enough resources and an adequate facility, the archival staff can develop and implement goals, plans, and priorities. Archival functions include collection development, appraisal, arrangement and description, reference and access, outreach, and preservation. Additionally, the archival culture offers support, insight and resources.