National archives and records – the legal and policy considerations for the UK

Abstract

Public Sector Information (PSI) is a strategic resource without which government could not function. It feeds directly into policy formation and growing volumes of personal and cultural information are in constant demand, fulfilling a wide variety of personal and business needs. Whereas traditional conduits for the supply and publication of such material were confined to the printed page and broadcast media, digitisation has opened up substantial new means for delivering access to these resources. This 'access revolution' has itself created a new array of issues about what types of material should be captured to form the national archive and what intellectual property rights apply. One important aspect is the less discussed issue of policy for the maintenance and development of the public archive. Mass digitisation of the public record requires investment and secure maintenance if the archive is to be sustained. So what kind of regulatory structure needs to be established to facilitate this? Moreover, how far should private sector participation and expertise be utilised? On what basis should proprietary and user rights be granted where such collaborations take place? Finally, what message comes out of this as regards regulatory reform for libraries and archives?

The functions of the National Archives of South Africa regarding universities’ records and archives

“…A study conducted by Saxby (2010) at the United Kingdom Archives recommends the organisation to: Positioning the archives as a contributor to national, social and economic objectives. Raising records management standards and enhancing teaching and learning by disseminating the historical archives. Raising awareness on the role of the National Archives. Integrating business, private and specialist archives as an integrated component of the national heritage. Promoting the creation and sustainability of moving image, sound, photographic and digital archives through support for relevant strategies. …”

Three years in the life of UK national information policy – the politics and process of policy development

“…On top of that, there are continuing questions about archiving PSI, its funding, intellectual property rights and policies, especially in the case of 'born digital' works. 144 There are also new partnerships out there involving public, private and third sector organisations that are working in a wide range of archival, policy making and information sharing environments. 145 The government needs to be sensitive to the needs of these enterprises and, where it can, to facilitate and promote collaboration.…”