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Surveying historical records
Surveys of historical records are a way of gathering information about the range and extent of archival collections on a common theme. They provide important additional information on records not otherwise listed in the National Register of Archives or other central sources of information.
We have made a checklist of the main issues to address when undertaking a survey. It looks at all the elements of setting up a project including objectives, costs, funding and dissemination of the results.
Surveying historical records (PDF, 0.06Mb)
Re-surveying
Resurveying can bring out references to topics latent, embedded or hidden in traditional archival description.
Revisiting Collections sets out a methodology for user involvement in reviewing collection descriptions. The Revisiting Archive Collections module explores how user input can enrich and expand collection information. It also practical guidance and advice on working with groups to address cataloguing issues.
The CASBAH surveying tool sets out a methodology for surveying research resources for Caribbean Studies and the history of Black and Asian peoples in Britain. The core methodology also provides a model for surveys of other underdeveloped subject areas. The survey tool pre-dates the creation of The National Archives so the references to staff and resources have often been superseded.
This page contains PDF files. See plug-ins and file formats for help in accessing these file types.
