Code of Ethics for Archivists
Preamble
The Code of Ethics for Archivists establishes standards for the archival
profession. It introduces new members of the profession to those standards,
reminds experienced archivists of their professional responsibilities, and
serves as a model for institutional policies. It also is intended to inspire
public confidence in the profession.
This code provides an ethical framework to guide members of the profession.
It does not provide the solution to specific problems.
The term “archivist” as used in this code encompasses all those
concerned with the selection, control, care, preservation, and administration
of historical and documentary records of enduring value.
I. Purpose
The Society of American Archivists recognizes the importance of educating
the profession and general public about archival ethics by codifying ethical
principles to guide the work of archivists. This code provides a set of principles
to which archivists aspire.
II. Professional Relationships
Archivists select, preserve, and make available historical and documentary
records of enduring value. Archivists cooperate, collaborate, and respect
each institution and its mission and collecting policy. Respect and cooperation
form the basis of all professional relationships with colleagues and users.
III. Judgment
Archivists should exercise professional judgment in acquiring, appraising,
and processing historical materials. They should not allow personal beliefs
or perspectives to affect their decisions.
IV. Trust
Archivists should not profit or otherwise benefit from their privileged
access to and control of historical records and documentary materials.
V. Authenticity and Integrity
Archivists strive to preserve and protect the authenticity of records in
their holdings by documenting their creation and use in hard copy and electronic
formats. They have a fundamental obligation to preserve the intellectual
and physical integrity of those records.
Archivists may not alter, manipulate, or destroy data or records to conceal
facts or distort evidence.
VI. Access
Archivists strive to promote open and equitable access to their services
and the records in their care without discrimination or preferential treatment,
and in accordance with legal requirements, cultural sensitivities, and institutional
policies. Archivists recognize their responsibility to promote the use of
records as a fundamental purpose of the keeping of archives. Archivists may
place restrictions on access for the protection of privacy or confidentiality
of information in the records.
VII. Privacy
Archivists protect the privacy rights of donors and individuals or groups
who are the subject of records. They respect all users’ right to privacy
by maintaining the confidentiality of their research and protecting any personal
information collected about them in accordance with the institution’s
security procedures.
VIII. Security/Protection
Archivists protect all documentary materials for which they are responsible
and guard them against defacement, physical damage, deterioration, and theft.
Archivists should cooperate with colleagues and law enforcement agencies
to apprehend and prosecute thieves and vandals.
IX. Law
Archivists must uphold all federal, state, and local laws.
Approved by the SAA Council, February 5, 2005.
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