The Institute studies archival professional and technical problems as part of archive theory and practice and keeps records of the solutions of these problems at home and abroad. In collecting outline design solutions for archive buildings the Institute aims to enable those considering designing a record office to learn from the experience of others and to build on that experience. By collecting in a comprehensive and systematic manner both published and, equally important, unpublished material and keeping it available via the members, the most up to date knowledge in this field will be at the disposal of all participants. The Institute is not only concerned to collect detailed plans, but rather to gather information about the possibility to adapt buildings for archival use, preserving their intrinsic architectural value and making them suitable to function effectively as record offices. Similarly the Institute aims to make available the latest ideas for the design of functional new buildings.
Archive buildings vary a great deal in their construction.
New techniques, such as thermal insulation rather than comprehensive air conditioning, have been developed. The Institute aims to gather this knowledge for the benefit of all, so that archivists can discuss the latest available information with their architects and engineers. The Institute gathers and disseminates information about all ancillary equipment for use in archive repositories, shelving, trolleys, air conditioning etc., as well as information about materials for storing archives. The design of reading rooms is a matter of fundamental importance for archivists administering record offices that are used by increasing numbers of users. The equipment necessary for both user and archivist is also developing and increasing.