Archival science, also known as archival studies or archival administration, refers to the academic discipline that focuses on the theory, practice, and management of archives. An archive is a collection of historical records, usually of an individual, organization, or governmental entity, that have been selected for long-term preservation and provide evidence of past events and activities. Archival science aims to ensure the proper organization, preservation, and accessibility of these records for future generations.
The discipline of archival science encompasses a broad range of activities and principles. It involves the arrangement and description of archival materials, which includes cataloging, classifying, and indexing records to facilitate their retrieval. Preservation techniques are employed to protect the records from deterioration and damage, such as environmental controls, proper storage, and digitization. Access and outreach efforts are undertaken to make archives accessible to researchers, scholars, and the wider public, including developing finding aids, reference services, and exhibitions.
Archival science is informed by principles such as provenance and original order, which emphasize maintaining the integrity and context of the records within an archive. It also includes ethical considerations, such as respecting privacy and confidentiality rights. The discipline is interdisciplinary, drawing from various fields like history, information science, records management, and library science.
Archival science plays a vital role in preserving collective memory and facilitating historical research. Archivists, professionals trained in archival science, ensure that records of enduring value are preserved, organized, and made available for present and future generations. They serve as custodians of society's documentary heritage, ensuring that these records are protected and accessible as a cornerstone of cultural heritage and knowledge.
