ICA-PAAG Concise Guide series – Guide 3: Management of Photographic Repositories

Type: Tools

What you will find in this resource:

The repository is understood as the heart of the archive and we can say that it contains everything that gives reason for the existence of the service. This is a 10 page guide created for the purpose of guiding the user on a tour of the main aspects and lines of work relating to the organisation and maintenance of a storage facility for the archiving of photographic heritage. Along with the basic knowledge that can be found here, resources are provided for further study which are specific to the main issues dealt with.  In  addition,  the  guidelines suggested here can serve to assist the user in computer searches which, while they may be very extensive, can sometimes be of vague benefit and even present a risk if they are not carried out using valid and directed research criteria.

This  guide can in no way replace the reasoned judgement that technicians and specialists can bring to every aspect of work with the most suitable adaptation to the specifics and particular characteristics of each context. Therefore it is important to remember the necessity, in case of doubt or when dealing with complex problems, of never overlooking the advice of professionals specialising in each area addressed. Before admitting a new item, one must think about its relevance and the sustainability of the expenditure which it will require in the short, medium and long term. This must be  done within  a  reflective framework  which balances the expenditure,  which the attention and care an object entails, against its cultural value for the community or the institution that will have to meet the maintenance costs.

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Visit the Photographic and Audiovisual Archives Working Group (PAAG) pages