Bridging the Gap: Integrating Archival Descriptive Best Practices in an Item-Level Dominated Museum Culture

Abstract

Libraries, archives, and museum collections are distinct collecting entities that share similarities in their concepts and workflows, yet diverge in their fundamental approaches to descriptive work. While librarians and archivists are frequently associated due to their placement within institutional hierarchies and shared academic backgrounds, librarians and museum registrars are more naturally aligned in the realm of metadata. Both librarians and registrars traditionally emphasize item-level description whereas archivists prioritize a creator and collection-based approach. This article aims to explore the challenges of maintaining archival descriptive best practices within a museum culture that predominantly emphasizes object collections and item-level documentation. By identifying tools, techniques, and strategies archives can implement, museum staff can better understand and appreciate the unique contributions of archival practices. Additionally, advocating for archival standards to senior staff will foster a more comprehensive and holistic approach to cataloging and preserving cultural heritage. By recognizing the value of both item-level and collection-based approaches, the museum can create a more robust and interconnected system of documentation, enhancing the overall quality and accessibility of their collections and archives.