Novak – Question 5

¶ 1 Leave a comment on paragraph 1 0 As an archivist, I have always prioritized access and engagement. An archive’s overarching responsibility in society is to preserve historical records, but it is just as important to ensure materials are sufficiently accessible. Similarly, it is important to stay engaged with the local community as well as any communities whose histories we are preserving, so people are aware of these accessible materials and how they may be relevant to their research as well as everyday lives. Radical archives can be models for more traditional archival institutions for the exploration of potential engagement opportunities. A repository will always obviously sit within the restraints of its institutional guidelines and mission; however, I think that more awareness of the practices of radical archives may help archivists and librarians identify ways in which they can utilize more “radical” practices in their own work, and specifically develop programs that may promote engagement. For example, a more traditional archive might expand its collecting mission and its understanding of what records or documents are appropriate for the institution, which may make the collection more representational and diverse, and ultimately promote new outreach opportunities.