National Collections Strategy
The National Collections Strategy was officially launched at the Society of Archivists' Conference in August 2008, with the start of a three-month consultation asking for feedback on the strategy's vision, aims and principles and suggestions for its successful implementation. The consultation formally ended on 30 November 2008 but the strategy document, questions for consideration and contact details will remain available until we publish our response here on The National Archives website by the end of February 2009.
Listening to your views is key to the strategy's success, so if you wish to comment, we still want to hear from you!
Overview
The National Collections Strategy is an initiative to identify in what areas the documentary heritage of England and Wales is under represented or not represented in archives and to address the reasons why. Its aim is to ensure that the records of key events, of the lives and activities of individuals and communities and of public, private and charitable organisations are retained in the most appropriate places, preserved and made easily available for as many purposes as possible.
Through collaborative partnerships, The National Archives will provide a framework of support, help and guidance in developing individual archive strategies: for example, for the health and business sectors, for the performing arts and sporting events, and for websites and digital information.
A consultative panel of representatives from archival and other relevant bodies has been established to oversee the implementation of the National Collections Strategy. The terms of reference for the panel are now available online: nationalarchives.gov.uk/about/operate/meetings/strategy/default.htm
Consultation process
Here are the questions we would like you to consider, though general comments are also welcome. Please let us know too, if you would be happy with our contacting you for further feedback:
1. Do we need a National Collections Strategy?
2. If so, is the approach to building new collections or supporting and nurturing 'at risk' collections as outlined in the Strategic Aims and Principles, the right one?
3. How do we identify gaps in the nation's archive collections and existing collections which might be deemed 'at risk'?
4. Which sectors, themes or formats are endangered and would benefit from strategies?
5. What will the big challenges be and what would make a 'successful' strategy?
6. How do we open debate with the broadest range of communities and how can we encourage continuing engagement from them?
7. How can we best communicate progress on the development of strategies: through The National Archives website and those of other stakeholders? Mailing lists or online forums? Meetings or seminars?
- Download our National Collections Strategy document (PDF, 39.75kb)
Either as individuals or on behalf of groups and organisations:
By email or telephone:
- Cathy Smith, Collections Strategies Manager +44 (0) 20 8392 5330 x2064
cathy.smith@nationalarchives.gov.uk - Edward Hampshire, Collections Advisor +44 (0) 20 8392 5330 x2324
edward.hampshire@nationalarchives.gov.uk
By post to:
Research and Collections Development, The National Archives
Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU
