It isn't just a question of space though. Many (most) of our visitors need
some help, sometimes lots and frequently, and if members of the public are
using primary SMR material (e.g. APs, or copyright material) there should
also be supervision for security purposes. So I don't think you can put
them and the SMR somewhere remote from competent help.
I am not sure there is a good answer to this one! Clearly you also need
dedicated searchroom staff, as in the Record Office, to oversee the
proceedings. Most of us cannot manage both a separate room and separate
staff.
PS Won't it be nice when David Evans is back at work.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: [log in to unmask] [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: Tuesday, June 20, 2000 5:13 PM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Public access to SMRs
>
> We are also wondering about this problem. We have Paul's option of using
> the local history library but is a terminal there public access to the
> SMR. Doesn't it imply access to the paper records and other materials that
> comprise an SMR. Otherwise you might as well be in bed with your laptop
> and internet access!
>
> If we need to provide a dedicated, private space in our office our bid is
> in serious trouble as, unlike Paul, our impending office move is intended
> to give us less space!
>
> Chris Webster
> Somerset Sites and Monuments Record
>
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
|