ARCHIVAL INTEGRITY Meaning and
Definition
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Archival integrity refers to the reliability and authenticity of preserved records or documents over time. It encompasses a range of principles, practices, and measures employed to ensure that archival materials remain intact, unchanged, and true to their original form and content. The concept of archival integrity is crucial in maintaining the evidential and informational value of records for historical, administrative, legal, or research purposes.
To achieve archival integrity, various strategies are implemented. This includes employing proper storage conditions, such as temperature and humidity control, to protect materials from physical degradation and deterioration. It involves utilizing appropriate preservation techniques, such as conservation treatments, digitization, and proper handling, to prevent loss or damage to documents.
Furthermore, maintaining archival integrity also necessitates implementing robust documentation and control procedures. This involves establishing and adhering to strict processes for appraising, accessioning, arranging, and describing records. It also includes implementing thorough documentation of any interventions or changes made to the materials to ensure transparency and accountability.
Moreover, ensuring the authenticity and reliability of archival materials requires safeguarding against unauthorized access, tampering, or alteration. This entails implementing security measures such as restricted access, authentication mechanisms, and backup systems, to protect against cyberattacks, data breaches, or unauthorized modifications.
In summary, archival integrity refers to the comprehensive set of measures employed to safeguard and preserve the original form, content, and reliability of archival materials. It involves the physical, procedural, and technical safeguards necessary to ensure the long-term usability and authenticity of records.
Etymology of ARCHIVAL INTEGRITY
The term "archival integrity" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words: "archival" and "integrity". Here are the etymologies of these individual words:
1. Archival: The word "archival" comes from the noun "archive", which originated from the Greek word "arkheion". "Arkheion" referred to the public records or government house in ancient Greece where official documents were stored. The term was later adopted into Latin as "archivum", which meant a public place for keeping official records. Eventually, "archival" emerged as an adjective form to describe something related to archival practices or preserving historical records.
2. Integrity: The word "integrity" comes from the Latin word "integritas", which means wholeness, completeness, or soundness. It stems from the Latin adjective "integer", meaning whole or complete.
