Archivbeständen

Archivbeständen refers to the collections of archival materials held by an archive. These materials can encompass a wide variety of formats, including documents, photographs, maps, audio recordings, films, and digital files. The term "Bestände" (plural of Bestand) is used in archival science to describe a fonds, which is the entire body of records, regardless of their form, organic or accumulated, that are preserved because of their enduring value. Archivbeständen are organized and described according to established archival principles, such as provenance and original order, to ensure accessibility and understanding. The management and preservation of archivbeständen are core functions of archival institutions, aiming to safeguard historical memory and provide research resources. Each Bestand is typically unique, reflecting the activities of the creator from which it originated, whether that be an individual, family, organization, or government agency. Cataloging and providing access to these collections are crucial for researchers, historians, and the public to explore and utilize the information contained within. The size and scope of archivbeständen vary greatly among different archives, ranging from small personal collections to vast national archives.