Creating a Local History Archive at Your Public Library

This manual provides both theory for shaping local history archive policies and practical guidelines for processing local history material for public access. The book is, in part, a response to national surveys that called for guidance in starting local history archives. By addressing a wide range of topics, including collection priorities, appraising, deaccessioning, digitization, reference service, and preservation, Phillips (lib. srvcs., V.F. Phillips Consulting; Local History Collections in Libraries) thoroughly presents the elements of a successful archive. Carol Kammen's and Bob Beatty's Zen and the Art of Local History provides a real-world supplement with input from practitioners concerning the scope and challenges of local historians. Rhonda Clark and Nicole Miller's Fostering Family History Services focuses on genealogical material, which is just one component to consider. Phillips's thorough guide, with its emphasis on current processing technology, is a useful addition to the literature.