Mitteilungen des Österreichischen Staatsarchivs 39. (1986)
Archive Buildings and the Conservation of Archival Material. An Expert Meeting, held in Vienna, Austria October 30 - November 1, 1985 - STEWART, William J.: Summary of Discussions
Summary of Discussions 279 If you now move this entire matter to the regional level it might exclude western nations. I was of the impression that we wanted to create a vehicle which would treat this subject in a comprehensive way. This is a problem which demands a global perspective. Once you start chopping it up and dispatching the parts to the regions you are losing that universal approach. Duchein: I think in that particular field we need to be aware of the requirements of every region and country. Our main challenge, however, is to develop a close rapport with technical specialists. We are archivists and cannot solve intricate technical matters such as air handling systems, fire protection, and electronic security. Instead of fragmenting the problem our goal ought to be to centralize the data gathering and arrange for continuous contact with those who can provide the technical answers we require. The many times we have turned to Mr Benoit during the sessions and the many times he has responded with answers proves that this cooperation is much needed. Auer: Mr Feindt has pointed out that the Committee on Conservation and Restoration has dealt with the topic of archive buildings for some years and this topic is on their program. I agree there is a close connection between the problems of archive buildings and conservation. So the Committee on Conservation and Restoration may reasonably claim competence. The issue is not which committee should handle the topic but will the topic be handled at all. If the Committee on Conservation and Restoration is able to take over the task I recommend we accept it. Mr Feindt has suggested a role for regional branches, if so, this will be another instance of responsibility being extended beyond the jurisdiction of the Committee on Conservation and Restoration. Hence, what we might do is recommend that the ICA consider regularizing contacts, procedures, and discussions in this field so there will be a follow-up to meetings such as the Vienna symposium. Thomas: May I pursue Mr Duchein’s remark about the need for close collaboration with technicians. I concur, it is important, but I would argue that in any interaction with technicians it is the archivists who must set the agenda. We must indicate the kind of advice and counsel we require and not make ourselves the targets of their latest bits of trendy technical equipment. Duchein: I am sure we all agree with Mr Thomas. I was thinking about a close association with architects and engineers and all kinds of technicians. I did not expect to give them “carte blanche”, as we say in French, quite the contrary. It is not for the engineer or the architect to tell us how we are to manage our repositories, this is our responsibility. But when we express our needs we must rely on the architect and engineer to find the solutions. Ms Krestovskaja: I want to support the idea that all issues relating to the construction of archival buildings should be transferred to the Committee on
