How to build an Archive

Wondering how this archive will be created? The following steps will be taken to bring it to life and ensure its long term use:

01

Map and Identify

This step involves locating and identifying the items related to the protests (both physical and digital). By mapping where they are located we can begin to create a comprehensive inventory.

How It Will Take Place:
  • Public call out: Create awareness on the archive and invite members of the public to contribute items
  • Conduct research: Collaborate with historians, activists, and community members to identify protest-related materials.
  • Document findings: Record details about each item’s origin, context, and significance.
Why It’s Necessary:

Mapping and identifying items provide historical context and ensure accurate representation in the archive.

02

Coordinate Collection

This step ensures that contributors can easily submit their items to the archive

How It Will Take Place:
  • Set up collection points: Establish drop-off locations at accessible places (libraries, community centers, etc.).
  • Communicate widely: Use social media, and community networks to inform the public about the collection process.
  • Provide guidelines: Clearly outline what items are accepted and how to submit them.
  • Provide terms of use: Clearly outline how the archived material will be used and ensure that contributors give consent to material being deposited into the archive.
Why It’s Necessary:
  • Coordinated collection streamlines the process and encourages community participation.
  • It also gives contributors a breakdown on their role, rights and responsibilities 

03

Catalog Items

Cataloging captures essential information about each item, making it easier to contextualize, manage and retrieve.

How It Will Take Place:
  • Create a database: Use digital tools or spreadsheets to record details (e.g., item description, contributor, date, location, significance).
  • Assign unique identifiers: Each item should have a distinct reference number.
  • Include context: Document the item’s relevance to the protests and its significance to those who contributed it
Why It’s Necessary:
  • Cataloging ensures organized storage and facilitates future research.
  • It also ensures that the items are enriched with information on the lives, moments and experiences they represent.

04

Conserve, Long-Term Physical and Digital Storage

Proper storage preserves the physical integrity of the items.
Eventually, the archive needs a permanent home.

How It Will Take Place:

  • Climate-controlled storage: Maintain stable temperature and humidity to prevent deterioration.
  • Acid-free materials: Use archival-quality boxes, folders, and sleeves.
  • Handle with care: Train staff and volunteers on safe handling techniques.
  • Identify institutions: Research museums, libraries, or universities interested in housing the archive.
  • Negotiate agreements: Discuss terms, access, and preservation responsibilities.
  • Data stewardship frameworks: Design protocols to ensure material is cared for, protected, updated by select host institutions and organizations
  • Temporary storage: While finalizing arrangements, the items will be temporarily stored with African Digital Heritage Foundation
Why It’s Necessary:
  • Conservation prevents damage and extends the lifespan of the items.
  • Long-term storage ensures the archive’s accessibility and continued preservation.
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