Archival Arrangement, Description, and Retrieval Systems: Results and Problems

Abstract

This article analyzes the results of and problems arising from archival arrangement, description, and retrieval systems so as to provide a context for consideration of “Archives Japan 50”．To begin with, the author introduces the construction of the information retrieval system at Kyoto University Archives. Next, he discusses the three following points: the current status of the retrieval system and its background, some problems relating to and resulting from changes in the parent organization, and standardization of description. Finally, the author suggests that we have to strive to pursue the question of what archives are in a profound way through establishing standardized description systems, as an essay on the future of archives in Japan.