NATIONAL REGISTER OF ARCHIVES
The NRA may now be accessed directly via the world wide web
<http://www.hmc.gov.uk/main.htm>. A new front end passes enquiries into
the NRA database and then displays the results in HTML. Users are
invited to search by personal name or description, some 40,000 records,
by corporate name, some 95,000 records, by place name or by any word.
The programs only recognise a single search term. Because of the size of
the database, users are advised where possible to select less common
words to avoid delays during selection and display.
A figure in brackets indicates the number of groups of records or papers
for each person, family or corporate body. After selection there is a
further display of covering dates, a brief description, the name of the
repository, the reference, NRA number (where appropriate) and the source
of information. Clicking on the repository name in turn displays the
relevant ARCHON entry, address, telephone/fax numbers, opening hours,
conditions of access etc. Clicking on the URL takes the user directly to
the repository's website.
Through the linkage of NRA data with information now available on the
web, an embryonic archival network has been established where remote
users are directed to the appropriate repository, whether or not it has
automated and networked finding aids. Future plans include more complex
searches by multiple terms and by dates and also the links to specific
catalogue web pages and databases. This is part of a continuing
programme to expand the coverage of the NRA as a central gateway to
British archives.
A great deal of effort has been devoted to providing an accurate,
efficient and quick response to enquiries. Inevitably the size of the
database will lead to some delays during periods of heavy use. The
system will be upgraded to accommodate increased demand when resources
allow.
The existing telnet connection to the NRA will continue for those who
prefer the more sophisticated range of searches that it offers.
I would be grateful to receive any comments or suggestions for improving
the service which the NRA and ARCHON now offer both to archivists and the
international research community.
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Dick Sargent
Director of the National Register of Archives
Historical Manuscripts Commission
Quality House, Quality Court
Chancery Lane
London WC2A 1HP
tel 0171 242 1198
fax 0171 831 3550
email [log in to unmask]
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