Archiefwaarden

Archiefwaarden, also known as archival value, refers to the significance of records that makes them worthy of permanent preservation. This significance is determined by various factors, not solely by the information they contain, but also by their context and the evidence they provide. Archival value is typically divided into two main categories: primary value and secondary value.

Primary value relates to the administrative, legal, and financial purposes for which the records were originally created or kept. This includes evidence of an organization's functions, policies, and activities, as well as legal and financial accountability. Records with high primary value are often those that document key decisions, transactions, or ongoing operations.

Secondary value, on the other hand, refers to the enduring importance of records for research, historical understanding, or cultural heritage. This can include information about people, places, events, or social trends that extend beyond the original purpose of the record. Secondary value is often identified by archivists through appraisal processes, considering the potential long-term use and research interest of the records.

The appraisal of archival value is a critical process in archives management. It involves evaluating records to determine which ones should be kept permanently, transferred to an archive, or disposed of. This appraisal is often guided by established principles and retention schedules, aiming to ensure that the most significant records are preserved for future generations while managing limited archival space and resources effectively. The determination of archival value is dynamic, as societal needs and research interests can evolve over time.