Selecting & Appraising: Archives & Manuscripts

by Frank Boles

Book by Boles, Frank

Genres: Library Science, Nonfiction, School, Textbooks, Information Science, Grad School, Academic

192 pages, Paperback

First published May 31, 2005

Reviews

[Greg]

As far as a textbook is concerned this is a pretty quick and interesting read. I recommend never having to sit through a group of people pedantically give a point by point overview of the book though, it made the book sound so terrible and caused to have thoughts of impaling myself in the eye with my pen just to be rid of the pain of having to listen to anymore.

[Erin]

I read Selecting and Appraising Archives and Manuscripts since I plan on taking the Certified Archivist exam. Overall it was a very informative book. Personally, I think it had an odd flow, starting out with a history discussion of the development of selection in the archive profession, then diving into how best to select materials for the archive. I was especially interested in the Collection-Analysis section, as I wish I had performed one in my archive after I first started. However, it's never too late and I think this work from home/shelter in place might be the perfect time to do it since research requests have slowed down.

Even though this book was written in 2005, most of the material is still relevant. Not surprising, the archive profession doesn't change much as far as selection goes. I do think the areas that mention digital archives though need a refresh, particularly since the future of archives will be heavily digital.

[Shawn]

After finishing a semester, I usually put aside the text book and never pick it up again. I think I'll refer back to this one now and again. It's pretty straightforward without a lot of overly academic language. Great for anyone getting started in archives, whether you are taking an archives appraisal class or not.

[Aaron Davis]

Easily the best of AFS II series. Well written and practical, this guide on selection and appraisal excellently explains the history of the subject while also helping archivists to "be bold" about making decisions about their collections.

[Mae]

In easily digestible sections. informative, easy to read and sometimes funny.

[Amanda Perry]

This was really approachable, and I enjoyed having it as an assigned text for my course on archival appraisal this semester.

[Brett]

This was a textbook I read for school. Really punchy. Conveys the info well.

[Jennifer Pickens]

Frank Boles has produced an excellent primer that is well suited to graduate students striving to learn about archival appraisal, as well as practicing archivists looking for a well-written book about appraisal theory and practice. His endearing sense of humor and easy-going writing style present what could be potentially dry material in such engaging way that is entertaining to read, providing the reader some chuckles amongst the knowledge-packed prose. Filled with practical advice, his book could be used to start an archive or collection, or to assist an archivist in whipping their archives into shape. He begins with an overview and history of appraisal thought, guides us through the "big picture" world of mission statements and collection policies, and culminates with advice on selection, including how and what to accept into an archive. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students through professionals.

[laurel]

A good overview of the development of appraisal methods, though a bit slanted to his personal theories.