A Special Case? Preserving and Funding Heritage Collections in Research Libraries: The British Example

Abstract

‘Heritage’ material is dispersed among many UK libraries and archives, and arrangements for safeguarding it are not working satisfactorily. Main causes of difficulty appear to be shortage of good management and advice; shortages of money, which have led many libraries to sell ‘heritage’ material; the speed with which problems multiply; and the speed necessary for action to be taken to save material before sale or dispersion. Machinery is needed to help to identify ‘heritage’ material in institutions of various kinds and specific material in danger or under threat of dispersal. Several bodies exist that can provide advice and financial assistance to libraries in difficulties, but there are serious gaps. An official statement of guidance and advice to all institutions should be drawn up. The problems discussed are unlikely to be confined to the UK.

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References

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An earlier version of this paper was contributed to a seminar sponsored by the Rare Books Group and the University, College and Research Group of the (UK) Library Association in June 1994. It has been revised in the light of the subsequent discussion.