The Role of University Archives in the Campus Information Environment

Building on a successful records management program, the Pennsylvania State University Archives launched an Electronic Records Appraisal project as an opportunity to join as a partner with administrative computing in addressing the retention and disposition of electronic records. More than 3,600 datasets from fourteen administrative and academic areas were evaluated in the twenty-seven-month project. Only fourteen datasets were appraised as having archival value, however, the vast majority lacked sufficient documentation to make a full appraisal decision. The project's recommendations addressed this problem and also pointed out policy inconsistencies on use of confidential data. The archives has continued to work with administrative computing on electronic archiving and records management policy and process issues. This partnership helps the archives advance its services as both historical information provider and steward of institutional records in all formats of enduring value.