Primary records: what future?

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to, invariably, critically look at primary records, their origins, categorization, uses and what the future holds for them, amid changing times. From the cradle of civilization, people have been using varied ways to record, store and distribute information. Years back, people kept their records on such materials as wax, papyrus, leather, clay, parchment, paper and wood. But recent technological developments have brought about different formats which in turn have influenced the choice of materials and methods used to write and circulate information. Design/methodology/approach – This is a viewpoint paper on primary documents in library and information service institutions. The paper critically looks at the different types of primary documents, how they are collected, the challenges involved and their future amid changing technological times. Relevant literature was consulted, including the Internet. Findings – The findings are that the future of primary documents will remain bleak if librarians, curators, records managers and archivists do not give serious thought to primary documents regardless of the fact that they are germane in library and information science. Originality/value – This is a viewpoint paper on primary documents. Relevant information was drawn from varied readings in library and information service institutions as well as from the Internet.

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