levéltártudományban

Levéltártudomány, often translated as archival science or archival studies, is the academic discipline concerned with the theory and practice of managing, preserving, and providing access to archives. Archives are collections of historical records, such as documents, photographs, and other materials, that have been selected for permanent preservation because of their enduring value. Levélártudomány encompasses a range of activities including appraisal, arrangement, description, preservation, and reference services.

Appraisal involves determining which records should be kept permanently and which can be disposed of. Arrangement and description focus on organizing archival materials in a logical order and creating finding aids, such as inventories and catalogs, to help users locate information. Preservation activities aim to ensure the long-term survival of archival materials through proper storage, handling, and conservation treatments. Reference services involve assisting researchers and the public in accessing and using archival collections.

Levéltártudomány also examines the ethical, legal, and social implications of archival work. This includes considerations of privacy, intellectual property, authenticity, and the role of archives in society. The field draws upon and contributes to other disciplines such as history, library science, information science, and law. Professionals in this field, often called archivists, work in a variety of institutions, including government archives, university archives, historical societies, museums, and corporate archives. Their work is crucial for understanding the past, supporting research, and ensuring accountability.