North Country Reference and Research Resources Council


Fall 2003

Page 3

On-Site Reviews Providing Assistance

Repositories in the Northern New York Library Network’s seven-county region continue to take advantage of having an on-site review conducted at their facilities.

The Advisory and Technical Assistance site reviews are funded through the New York State Archives and are provided by the Network at no cost to repositories.

A follow-up site review was conducted at the Wells Memorial Library on June 26, 2003.

The consultant suggested the finding aid currently in progress at the library be completed; that the preservation photocopying be utilized for pieces that are fragile, high-use, or of theft value; and that historical record collections be retained as a unit and in the order set by the creation of the records. The library was encouraged to take part in Archives Week 2003 to be held in October.

A site review was conducted at the Town of Moriah Historical Society on June 3, 2003.

It was recommended that the historical records currently housed at the Republican Steel Building be moved to the Iron Center; that records be stored in a secure area accessible only to staff; that a list of records be prepared as a finding aid; that an area for cleaning supplies and equipment in the first level should be established and observed; and that records should be stored in archival quality containers appropriate to the format.

A follow-up site review was conducted at the Almanzo & Laura Ingalls Wilder Association in Malone, on May 6, 2003.

The consultant pointed out a mission statement exists, but there is no collection management policy; and while the association personnel are aware of standard archival security protocols, none are currently posted. The consultant discussed arrangement and description, and the care and handling of historical records with the personnel.

A follow-up site review was conducted at the Westville Historical Organization on April 22, 2003.

The consultant met with the organization’s board and general members. The group reviewed the Westville Historical Organization’s plans to occupy its headquarters following renovations in late 2003. The advisor is scheduled to return at that point and work with those responsible for the historical records program. Issues will include adequate storage facilities, user policies, archival security, and patron service areas.

A site review was conducted at the American Handweaving Museum and Arts Center in Clayton on February 21, 2003.

The advisor recommended the museum personnel continue to maintain a stable environment for their collections; that an inventory be completed; finding aids be created; and that a DHP grant application be filed to pursue a project to arrange and describe a portion of their collection.

During all site visits, comments made by the consultants are advisory in nature; facilities are encouraged, but not required, to act on recommendations.

Previous Page | Next Page