Cause to celebrate, another book on recordkeeping! But do we need another generalist exploration of archival theory, when we already have, among others, Archives: Recordkeeping in society (S. McKemmish et al., Elsevier, 2005) and Currents of archival thinking, (ed. by T. Eastwood and H. MacNeil, Libraries Unlimited, 2010)? The answer is a resounding yes, as the contributions to this edited volume provide fresh insight and in so doing will stimulate further critical reflection. The rationale for the book is delightfully described by the editor as being to ‘un-muddy’ the swirls generated by shifting contemplation of theory and practice.
The seven chapters cover an eclectic range of topics, and each chapter focuses on a particular aspect of archival science. Caroline Williams addresses the key concepts in the opening chapter, providing the foundation for subsequent exploration. Authorial backgrounds are mostly British (Caroline Williams, Rachel Hardiman and Alan Bell) and American (Anne Gilliland, Jennifer Meehan and Jeannette Bastian) with Eric Ketelaar from the Netherlands providing a global view. These diverse backgrounds mean that a variety of theoretical perspectives can be presented, which adds to the depth and richness of content. Although chapters sometimes have very different styles and tones (Rachel Hardiman's discourse on the impact of philosophy for instance is more encyclopaedic than narrative in style), all are strong and make worthwhile contributions to the whole.
A personal favourite is Anne Gilliland's chapter on archival appraisal, which is remarkably successful in concisely reviewing the various competing theories and practices which have characterised this contested space. She discusses appraisal theories and approaches, emphasising the importance of understanding the societal and institutional contexts in which specific methodologies have been developed. Alan Bell's chapter on technological change and recordkeeping theory provides a fine, thought-provoking conclusion to the whole. Recognition of the key role of the records continuum was particularly gratifying; despite all authors coming from the Northern Hemisphere, Australia's crucial contribution to theory is very definitely acknowledged.
All in all this is a very worthwhile collection of chapters, many of which deserve to be included on the reading lists for students, but also are worth reading by established practitioners and academics.