ACA Appraisal, Acquisition, and Accessioning — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of archival appraisal?
- To assess monetary value of records
- To assign catalog numbers
- To determine long-term archival value (Correct answer)
- To digitize records immediately
Correct answer: To determine long-term archival value
Appraisal determines the long-term value of records for preservation based on their informational, evidential, and historical significance.
Question 2: Which of the following is a key factor in archival appraisal?
- Page count
- Provenance (Correct answer)
- Paper thickness
- Date of digitization
Correct answer: Provenance
Provenance helps assess the context in which records were created, aiding in understanding their value and relevance.
Question 3: What does 'accessioning' involve in archival practice?
- Shredding duplicate records
- Digitizing fragile items
- Recording and formally accepting new materials (Correct answer)
- Translating documents
Correct answer: Recording and formally accepting new materials
Accessioning is the process of officially documenting and acknowledging the receipt of materials into the repository.
Question 4: Which of the following best describes the principle of 'respect des fonds'?
- Preserving only digital records
- Indexing based on subject
- Maintaining original order and source of records (Correct answer)
- Reorganizing all materials alphabetically
Correct answer: Maintaining original order and source of records
'Respect des fonds' is the archival principle that records from the same origin should be kept together and not mixed with others.
Question 5: What legal document is often required during acquisition?
- Work order
- Retention schedule
- Deed of gift (Correct answer)
- Finding aid
Correct answer: Deed of gift
A deed of gift outlines the terms of the donation and ensures legal transfer of ownership from donor to the archive.
Question 6: Which of the following would most likely be excluded during archival appraisal?
- Founding charters
- Duplicate memos (Correct answer)
- Photographs of historic events
- Correspondence from founders
Correct answer: Duplicate memos
Routine administrative records with no enduring value, such as lunch menus or duplicate memos, are typically not retained permanently.
ACA Appraisal, Acquisition, and Accessioning
What is the primary purpose of archival appraisal?