Research Essays During summer 2002, MLA commissioned background research to inform the work of the Archives Task Force. Authored by leading archive professionals, these "think piece" essays provide a brief outline of key themes and issues in core areas. These essays were not intended to be definitive statements, or the last word on these issues. Rather, they were designed to stimulate debate and enable the Archives Task Force to clarify its thinking on key issues. They are presented here for information. The essays are: Access for all: Online access and digitisation
The aim of this theme is to explore how technology can be used to increase access to collections and information about collections for the benefit of users, and how technology can be exploited to enhance user experience, and draw in new audiences. What is the digital future, and what are the possibilities and barriers for the archives domain?  Word 1.63MB  PDF 1.34MB
Scholarship and Learning
Archives are widely recognised as one of the single most important sources of evidence for our national and local history. They provide the raw data to enable researchers to study and evaluate the national, regional and local picture of the experiences of different communities and people. What are the learning opportunities and experiences presented through archives? How can these best be developed and supported? Word 179KB PDF 452KB Stewardship
We need to care for the archives we have and make provision for archives of the future. How can we ensure that good stewardship realises the full potential of investment in the acquisition and maintenance of archival collections for future generations will include modernising access (through digital archiving, for example) and ensuring the highest standards of archive care and management? What is the balance between stewardship and access? Word 202KB PDF 516KB Infrastructure: Frameworks for service delivery
Archives exist in many and varied institutions and organisations. We need to consider the infrastructure for public archives in the UK, and what relationships and partnerships are required to create sustainable and responsive and innovative services. The implications of possible future archive legislation, UK national and regional agendas, the creation of the national archives and the contribution that sound record keeping can make to business efficiency and accountability needs to be analysed. What are the implications for service development, rationalisation, and the impact of regionalism, networks and partnerships? What do users want? Word 186KB PDF 430KB
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