processing archival collections

Processing archival collections involves organizing and describing materials, like documents, photographs, or recordings, to make them accessible for research and reference. Archivists first assess the collection’s contents, then arrange items logically—often by date, topic, or origin—and create detailed descriptions called finding aids. They may also conserve fragile items and establish protective conditions. The goal is to preserve the materials’ integrity while providing clear, comprehensive access so users can easily locate and understand the collection’s contents.