Arkivserier

An arkivserie, often translated as archival series or record series, is a fundamental concept in archival science and recordkeeping. It refers to a group of records that are related by their creator, function, subject, or form, and that have been organized and maintained together as a unit for administrative, historical, or evidential purposes. The concept of an arkivserie is crucial for the arrangement, description, and preservation of archival materials.

Arkivserier are not simply random collections of documents. Instead, they represent the natural order in which records were created and used by an individual, family, or organization. Understanding the context of their creation and their original purpose is key to identifying and maintaining distinct arkivserier. For example, an organization's financial records might constitute one arkivserie, while its correspondence might form another, and minutes of meetings yet another.

The systematic identification and organization of arkivserier is a core activity for archivists. This process, known as arrangement, aims to preserve the original order and structure of the records as much as possible. This is because the original order often reflects the functions and activities that generated the records, providing valuable context for their interpretation.

Describing arkivserier is also a critical step. This involves creating finding aids or inventories that provide information about the contents, scope, and arrangement of each series. These descriptions allow researchers to locate and understand the materials they need. Ultimately, the concept of the arkivserie is essential for ensuring that records remain accessible, usable, and comprehensible over time.