Community Archives, Community Spaces: Heritage, Memory and Identity

This book explores the community archives movement, which has expanded the definition of community archives to include sites such as historical societies, social movement organizations, and community centers. It also explores new definitions of community archives in relation to disciplines outside the archives, and includes practical case studies on the challenges of building and sustaining community archives. It appeals to practitioners, researchers, and academics in the archives and records community, as well as to historians and other scholars concerned with community building and social issues.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 216 pages
\n Publication date: 31 March 2019
\n Publisher: Facet Publishing
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This comprehensive book delves into the rich history and evolving landscape of community archives, expanding its definition to encompass a wide range of sites such as historical societies, social movement organizations, and community centers. It also explores innovative possibilities for what community archives can encompass, particularly in relation to disciplines outside the traditional realm of archives.

Since the publication of the first volume of Community Archives over a decade ago, the community archives movement has experienced remarkable growth and recognition. This growth has been fueled by ongoing research, as well as the formal recognition of community archives in the UK. Today, community archives are widely regarded as a vital and dynamic field of study, attracting the attention of archivists, archival scholars, and a broader audience worldwide.

Community archives are increasingly recognized as being at the forefront of social concerns, serving as powerful markers of community-based activism and a participatory approach that reflects the ongoing evolution of professional archival and heritage practice. They play a crucial role in empowering individuals to articulate and assert their identity, fostering a sense of belonging and heritage within communities.

Community Archives, Community Spaces: The Latest Research and Practical Case Studies is a testament to the latest developments in this field. This new book offers a wealth of insights and practical case studies, providing valuable guidance for practitioners, researchers, and academics alike. It appeals to a diverse audience, including archives and records professionals, historians, and scholars interested in community building, social issues, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The book explores the historical roots of the community archives movement, tracing its origins to grassroots initiatives and community-driven efforts to preserve local history and heritage. It discusses the various types of community archives, including those focused on specific ethnic, cultural, or social groups, as well as those that serve broader community interests. The book also examines the challenges and opportunities associated with building and sustaining community archives, including issues related to funding, staffing, preservation, and access.

In addition to its theoretical and practical aspects, Community Archives, Community Spaces offers valuable insights into the social and cultural significance of community archives. It explores how these archives contribute to community identity, social cohesion, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The book also examines the role of community archives in promoting social justice, activism, and community engagement, highlighting their potential as tools for empowerment and social change.

The book includes a range of practical case studies that showcase the diverse and innovative approaches taken by community archives around the world. These case studies provide valuable examples of how community archives have been used to document and preserve local history, promote community engagement, and address social issues. They offer insights into the strategies and techniques used by community archives to engage with their communities, build partnerships, and create meaningful access to their collections.

Overall, Community Archives, Community Spaces is a groundbreaking and essential resource for anyone interested in the field of community archives. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date examination of the movement, its history, its significance, and its potential for shaping the future of archival and heritage practice. This book will be of great value to practitioners, researchers, and academics alike, as well as to historians and other scholars concerned with community building, social issues, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

\n Weight: 454g\n
Dimension: 165 x 245 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781783303519\n \n