Theory on Outreach Activities in Archives: Focusing on University Archives

Abstract

ʻOutreachʼin archives institutions means those activities which are directed toward bodies beyond such institutions, and aims at seeking recognition of archives as a means of benefiting members of the community and society at large. It further means the introduction, promotion and use of valuable archival information. This article is structured as follows. First, I examine the types of outreach activity of university archives in the United States. Next, I establish the minimum-essence of outreach activities. Thereafter, I examine the current situation of and problems related to outreach activities conducted by university archives in Japan. Finally, I suggest that the cumulative unifying of theory and practice of outreach activities is essential.