Kurzreko

Kurzreko is a term originating from German that translates to "short record" or "brief account." It is primarily used in the context of historical research and archival science to describe a concise summary or abstract of a longer document, collection, or event. These records are created to provide a quick overview of the material's content, making it easier for researchers to identify relevant sources without having to examine each full document.

The purpose of a Kurzreko is to facilitate efficient information retrieval. Archivists and historians often create Kurzrekos for newly acquired collections or for materials that are frequently consulted. They can include key dates, individuals involved, main themes, and the scope of the original source. The level of detail in a Kurzreko can vary depending on its intended audience and the complexity of the source material.

In practice, a Kurzreko might appear as a short descriptive paragraph at the beginning of a collection's finding aid, or as an entry in a catalog. It serves as a vital tool for navigating vast archives, allowing users to quickly assess the potential value of a source for their research. While not a substitute for in-depth study, the Kurzreko acts as an essential gateway to historical information.