Principles Archivists appraise, select, acquire, preserve, and make available for use archival records, ensuring their intellectual integrity and promoting responsible physical custodianship of these records, for the benefit of present users and future generations. Archivists have a responsiblity to ensure that they and their colleagues are able to perform these and other professional activities in an environment free of discrimination and sexual or personal harrassment. Archivists encourage and promote the greatest possible use of the records in their care, giving due attention to personal privacy and confidentiality, and the preservation of records. Archivists carry out their duties according to accepted archival principles and practices, to the best of their abilities, making every effort to promote and maintain the highest possible standards of conduct. Archivists contribute to the advancement of archival studies by developing personal knowledge and skills, and by sharing this information and experience with members of archival and related professions.
Archivists use their specialized knowledge and experience for the benefit of society as a whole.
Applications of Principles A. Appraisal, Selection, and Acquisition A1 . Archivists appraise, select, and acquire records in accordance with their institutions' mandates and resources. These activities should be guided by consideration for the integrity of the fonds. Archivists document the criteria which governed the appraisal, selection, and acquisition of records. Archivists discourage unreasonable restrictions onaccess or use, but may accept as a condition of acquisition clearly stated restrictions of limited duration and should suggest such restrictions to protect personal privacy.