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Re: vertical files to compact shelving



I'm not clear what Kristen means by "appraisal" of the vertical
files.   The traditional library vertical files certainly need to be
frequently weeded and kept-up-to-date.    Some archives keep
vertical files of most-frequently-asked materials such as biographies
of people for whom buildings are named, etc.    When I use the term
"vertical files" I tend to refer to archival collections that we have
placed in filing cabinets simply because they are used so frequently.

I've been very torn about having a "subject" vertical file system for
frequent questions.   I've seen situations where users who use these
kinds of files assume (1) they've seen everything you have, and (2)
they don't learn the nuts and bolts of how to use the archives or
special collections  -- and I'd rather spend a little more time in the
#2 area.    And I've had some success in getting the casual user
excited about archives research or at least imparting some training
about finding aids, using a reading room, etc.

Dean



Dean DeBolt
University Librarian
Special Collections and West Florida Archives
John C. Pace Library
University of West Florida
11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, FL  32514-5750
Tele:  850-474-2213;   Fax:  850-474-3338

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