Archivist Archival Principles & Practices Flashcards

Which format is considered the archival master standard for digitizing photographic negatives?

Answer: TIFF at 600 dpi or higher

TIFF at high resolution (typically 600 dpi or higher) is the archival master standard because it is uncompressed and preserves maximum image data.

What is the term for the process of transferring records of continuing value from active agency use to an archival repository?

Answer: Transfer

In records management, 'transfer' refers to moving records from the creating agency to an archival repository for permanent retention.

Which preservation concern is MOST specific to magnetic tape media (e.g., VHS, audio cassette)?

Answer: Sticky shed syndrome

Sticky shed syndrome is a deterioration unique to magnetic tape where the polyester urethane binder absorbs moisture and sheds, causing the tape to stick to playback equipment.

An archivist must balance openness with privacy. Under the Privacy Act of 1974, what category of federal records receives the strongest protection?

Answer: Personnel and medical records about living individuals

The Privacy Act of 1974 protects personally identifiable information in federal records, with personnel and medical records about living individuals receiving strongest protection.

Which concept describes the complete history of a record's custody, ownership, and location from creation to the present?

Answer: Chain of custody

Chain of custody documents the successive custody of records, which is critical for establishing authenticity and admissibility, especially in legal contexts.

When deaccessioning materials from an archival collection, which action is generally considered LEAST appropriate?

Answer: Selling items through a public auction

Selling deaccessioned archival materials for profit is generally considered ethically problematic and violates SAA's Core Values regarding the public trust nature of archival holdings.

What does OAIS stand for in the context of digital preservation?

Answer: Open Archival Information System

OAIS (Open Archival Information System) is an ISO standard (14721) providing a reference model for digital preservation systems and their functions.