Includes bibliographical references and index.

What are archives? --The nature of archives -- Archival history and theory -- The uses of archives -- Types of archival institution -- Principles of archival service -- Balancing access and privacy -- Managing the institution -- Preserving archives -- Acquiring archives -- Arranging and describing archives -- Making archives available -- Conclusion -- To learn more -- Glossary of terms.

Much of what we do in life comes from habit and tradition, but at times it is necessary to evaluate the way something is done, and consider other options. Archivists search for a balance between principles and practices, but Millar believes there is no one way to manage archives. She shows that there are too many social, cultural and practical variations in the way records archives and evidence are created, managed and used, and attempts to reconcile this reality with the circumstance that vary from one environment to another.