Bestandslisten

Bestandslisten are inventories that document the holdings of a collection, asset, or group of items within an organization. The term is used in German-speaking contexts to refer to lists that enumerate what is owned, stored, or managed, and it can apply to libraries, archives, museums, and businesses.

In libraries, archives, and museums, a Bestandsliste functions as a finding aid or inventory record. It helps staff and researchers locate items, verify completeness, and understand the scope of a collection. The lists typically include essential metadata such as title or object name, creator or source, date, physical description, access status, and a location or call number. For archives, the structure often mirrors the archival hierarchy (fonds, bestände, series, items) and may provide container and folder information alongside provenance notes and rights statements.

Content and structure of a Bestandsliste vary by domain but usually aim to be clear and traceable. Common elements are a unique identifier, descriptive fields (title, author, date, material or medium), dimensions or extent, current storage location, and any conditions or conservation notes. In archival practice, the list may also record compilation history, acquisition details, and related items or series.

Creation and maintenance involve cataloging or collection-management processes. Bestandslisten are updated as items are acquired, transferred, deaccessioned, or relocated, and they may be maintained in paper form, digital databases, or integrated with library or archive management systems. They support accountability, inventory control, and facilitate research, auditing, and compliance with institutional policies.