Abstract:
Sound recordings are compelling cultural and historical documents with great potential for instruction and research, public programming, and personal enrichment. Many sound recordings are at risk of loss due to the inherent instabilities of their materials, their sensitivity to mishandling and poor storage conditions, and the threat of technological obsolescence. Access to sound recordings over time depends on an informed and active management program. This presentation provides an overview of the challenges of managing sound recordings in archives and speaks to the qualities of a successful management program.