They subscribe to a code of ethics based on sound archival principles and promote institutional and professional observance of these ethical and archival standards. A rchivists arrange transfers of records and acquire documentary materials of long-term value in accordance with their institutionsU purposes, stated policies, and resources. They do not compete for acquisitions when competition would endanger the integrity or safety of documentary materials of long-term value, or solicit the records of an institution that has an established archives. They cooperate to ensure the preservation of materials in repositories where they will be adequately processed and effectively utilized. Archivists discourage unreasonable restrictions on access or use, but may accept as a condition of acquisition clearly stated restrictions of limited duration and may occasionally suggest such restrictions to protect privacy.
Archivists observe faithfully all agreements made at the time of transfer or acquisition.
A rchivists establish intellectual control over their holdings by describing them in finding aids and guides to facilitate internal controls and access by users of the archives. A rchivists appraise documentary materials of long-term value with impartial judgment based on thorough knowledge of their institutionsU administrative requirements or acquisitions policies. They maintain and protect the arrangement of documents and information transferred to their custody to protect its authenticity. Archivists protect the integrity of documentary materials of long-term value in their custody, guarding them against defacement, alteration, theft, and physical damage, and ensure that their evidentiary value is not impaired in the archival work of arrangement, description, preservation, and use. They cooperate with other archivists and law enforcement agencies in the apprehension and prosecution of thieves.