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Knowing the Need: optimising preservation for library and archive collections
Report
The second ‘Knowing the Need’ report on the state of preservation of library and archive collections in the UK and Republic of Ireland is available in draft here: www.bl.uk/blpac/ktn.html
The report covers the period 2006-2011 and is based on the results of 86 Preservation Assessment Surveys and analyses evidence on the use, significance, accessibility, preservation and physical condition of traditional library and archive collections.
Key findings include:
• 66% of collections are unique or likely to be the only copy in the UK and Republic of Ireland
• 82% will be retained indefinitely in original format only
• 8% are in high demand and 25 % are in medium demand
• 59% are protected by adequate storage
• 38% have adequate environmental management practices in place
• 83% are protected by safe handling procedures
• 62% are covered by up to date emergency control plans with staff trained on implementation
The report looks at whether the evidence shows any differentiation in preservation practice according to factors such as demand levels and physical condition. It shows where there are common weaknesses and suggests ways in which these could be addressed. The first step is a conference on 1st March at the British Library to discuss the findings in the context of other recent research and initiatives (see below).
Conference
1 March 2013
British Library Conference Centre, 96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB
A one day conference focussed on getting more bang for your buck in the management and application of preservation strategy. Through a combination of presentations and discussion sessions, the programme covers:
• The launch of the second Knowing the Need report on the state of preservation in libraries and archives in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
• Research into the value of special collections and how that value can be maximised.
• An investigation into the apparent lack of discrimination in the application of preservation strategies and the reasons for this.
• A challenge to decision-makers to be more selective in their decision making and prioritisation in order to optimise their preservation activity.
• Next steps for working together to improve the status quo.
Who should come?
The conference will be of interest to everybody involved in making decisions about how best to make collections available for the long term, including: collection managers, librarians, archivists, conservators, advisory and support agencies and funding organisations.
Cost: £40 + VAT = £48 (including refreshments)
For the full programme and booking form please see: www.bl.uk/blpac/ktnconference.html
The draft report is available for download here: www.bl.uk/blpac/ktn.html
Caroline Peach
Head of Preservation Advisory Centre
The British Library
96 Euston Road
London NW1 2DB
www.bl.uk/blpac
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