'Archives for the 21st Century in action' is a joint publication launched by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council and The National Archives to provide leadership, guidance and to drive successful partnerships. Created for leaders of local authorities and universities, the publication is a tool to support senior archives professionals engage with funders and to showcase the potential of archives and their vital contributions to the public sector.
'Archives for the 21st Century in action' offers clear and practical advice about how to get the most out of archive services, ensuring better value for money for those who run and fund the services, plus a higher standard of services which is tailored to the users' needs.
The document champions how Heads of Archive Services can deliver the benefits to local authorities and universities using the five recommendations identified in the Government policy 'Archives for the 21st Century'.
'Archives for the 21st Century' was published in November 2009 in response to the Government's new vision for publicly funded archive services. The document recognised the vital importance of archives as the gateway to the nation's common legacy, whilst reflecting the technological transition society is going through. It also highlighted the role archives have to play in linking people with their communities, their heritage and their responsibility to future generations and in addressing the fragility of digital information and how to preserve the survival of the public record as a whole.
Further information on plans for support and guidance is also in the action plan for England. Both documents have been developed with stakeholders from all parts of the sector, and The National Archives and MLA are working with CyMAL on the Welsh Action Plan.
Click here for 'Archives for the 21st Century in action'.