National Archives
December 27, 2009
http://www.nhb.gov.sg/NAS/index.htm
Established by an act of parliament in 1968, the National Archives of Singapore (NAS) was first known as the National Archives and Records Centre (NARC). In 1979, with the addition of the Oral History Department, the National Archives was renamed the National Archives and Oral History Department. NAS is an institution under the National Heritage Board, which was instituted in 1993.
Who are they?
The National Archives of Singapore (NAS) houses the collective memory of our nation. This memory allows current and future generations Of Singaporeans to understand our different cultures, explore our common heritage and appreciate who we are and how we became a nation.
As the official custodian of the corporate memory of the government, NAS manages public records and provides advice to government agencies on records management. From government files, private memoirs, historical maps and photographs to oral history interviews and audio-visual materials, NAS is responsible for the collection, preservation and management of Singapore’s public and private archival records, some of which date back to the early 19th century.
NAS protects the rights of citizens by providing evidence and accountability of government actions. Its repository of archival materials makes NAS an important research centre for those in search of information about the country’s history. NAS also promotes public interest in our nation’s history and heritage through educational programmes and exhibitions.
What do they do?
1. Manages archival holdings. Acquires and preserves records of national and historical significance, including records which document the rights of citizens and obligations of the government, and makes them available to the public.
2. Conserves and preserves paper documents which have deteriorated due to physical wear and tear, acid content in paper or insect and fungal infestation.
3. Implements effective records management for the civil service, and identifies important public records for permanent preservation.
4. Reformats images of fragile paper records onto microfilm and digital media for effective long-term storage.
5. Captures and preserves the moving images and recorded sound heritage of Singapore and organizes traveling exhibitions to bring our history to Singaporeans.
6. Records memories of people who have influenced and participated in Singapore’s history through recorded interviews.
What type of service do they provide?
- Records Management and Preservation NAS implements an effective records management programme for the public service.
Vital records are scanned and output onto microfilms for preservation in climate-controlled conditions. Records with intrinsic value are carefully conserved. In 2003, NAS achieved ISO 9001:2000 certification in imaging and conservation services, in recognition of quality and operational efficiency in our key preservation processes.
- Providing Access
The value of archives lies in their continuing relevance to people who need them to understand the past, write research papers, as evidence of rights and obligations, or simply as creative inspiration. Public access to the collections is available through the Archives Reference Room or online at www.a2o.com.sg.
- Sharing Knowledge
In addition to the core work in protecting and preserving its archives, NAS shares expertise with the community through consultation and training. They run regular seminars on using archival resources, records management and oral history methodology. In partnership with local universities, NAS provides internships and courses on archives and records management. They also conduct guided tours of NAS to educate the public on the nuts and bolts of archival work.
- Archives Conservation Services
Archives Conservation Lab provides professional conservation services for paper records such as anoxic treatment, deacidification, leafcasting, mechanical cleaning, manual repair, tissue mounting, encapsulation and high value (rare) book binding using archival method. The customers include government agencies, companies as well as private collectors. The experienced conservators will be able to recommend the type of treatment(s) required and provide an estimation of the charges based on the physical condition of the records as well as offering advice on proper storage and handling methods. NAS may impose a 10% downpayment for large scale or high value projects before the commencement of work.
Do they use any Social Media & Web 2.0 technologies for public communication & education?
http://www.a2o.com.sg/a2o/public/html/
Yes, the National Archives of Singapore (NAS) developed the Access to Archives Online Singapore , a one-stop portal site on heritage information dating back to 17th century. a2O allows users to seamlessly search information across NHB’s various independent databases and view selected photographs, maps and plans, listen to oral history interview samplers and watch snippets of audio-visual recordings, round the clock. In addition, a2O also provides information on recently acquired materials by NAS, Online Exhibitions, how to access our archival collection as well as student programmes.
Why is it called a2O?
The name a2O is used as an analogy to HO – an essential element to live. As much as human beings need water to survive, heritage and culture is an essential part of our lives. a2O allows us to search for heritage information, which documents the on-going process of changes and reveals different facets of our history, values and identity. The message is that “aO” is a link between our past and present as well as a bridge to the future.
