As data as a scholarly object continues to grow in importance in the research community, librarians are undertaking increasing responsibilities regarding data management and curation. New library initiatives include assisting researchers in finding data sets for reuse; locating and hosting repositories for required archiving; consultations on…

The application of computers to retrieval of primary documents is illustrated by descriptions of the Baltimore Region Institutional Studies Center (BRISC), which operates an automated system for retrieving records by subject, geographic location, and date; and ARCHON (ARCHives ONline), the online program developed to meet BRISC retrieval…

Describes the holdings and services provided by the Roper Center, the largest archive of survey data in the world. Explains the structure of and topics included in the online database, and discusses fees, membership opportunities, and future plans for the center. A sidebar by Burns W. Roper is included. (CLB)

Describes archives of survey data, which differ from archives of other basic research material in that they came into being as collections of material created only to serve someone's original research needs. These archives do have particular problems but they do provide broad contributions to scholarship and should be encouraged rather than…

Describes the transition of the Getty Center Photo Archive from a museum library serving a select curatorial clientele to a major art research library, and the resulting need to devise new cataloging schemes. The discussion covers efforts to reconcile existing cataloging formats with MARC formats. (CLB)

This article explores the uses, practicality, and problems involved in creating online finding aids by state-funded university archivists across the nation. It examines various aspects of online finding aids such as financial considerations, its importance as a research tool, timelines, demographics, and use. The more technical side is also…

Containing the findings of a year-and-a-half investigation, this report outlines the present state of historical records in New York State, identifies problems in their treatment, and recommends corrective action. Assessed are the strengths and weaknesses of historical records programs in state and local government and nongovernment organizations,…