Arkistotoimia

Arkistotoimia refers to the actions and processes involved in managing and preserving archival materials. This encompasses a wide range of activities undertaken by archives and archival institutions to ensure the long-term accessibility and integrity of historical records. Key arkistotoimia include the acquisition of new archival materials through donation, transfer, or purchase, followed by their appraisal to determine their historical and administrative value. Once acquired, records undergo processing, which involves organizing, arranging, and describing them to facilitate access. This often includes creating finding aids such as inventories and catalogs.

Preservation is a central component of arkistotoimia, involving measures to protect records from deterioration and damage. This can include environmental controls like maintaining stable temperature and humidity, as well as physical conservation treatments for damaged items. Digital preservation is increasingly important, addressing the challenges of maintaining the accessibility of electronic records over time. Access and reference services are also crucial, where archivists assist researchers and the public in locating and using archival materials. Security measures are implemented to protect the collections from theft or unauthorized access. Arkistotoimia also involves the deaccessioning of records that are no longer deemed to have archival value, following established procedures. Overall, arkistotoimia ensures that valuable historical evidence is safeguarded and made available for future generations.