Helpful links
Here are some ideas about where you might seek background about the UNESCO Memory of the World programme, as well as details for managing your collections and finding assistance.
UNESCO Memory of the World
UNESCO established the Memory of the World Programme in 1992. Impetus came originally from a growing awareness of the parlous state of preservation of, and access to, documentary heritage in various parts of the world. War and social upheaval, as well as severe lack of resources, have worsened problems which have existed for centuries. Significant collections worldwide have suffered a variety of fates. Looting and dispersal, illegal trading, destruction, inadequate housing and funding have all played a part. Much as vanished forever; much is endangered. Happily, missing documentary heritage is sometimes rediscovered.
New Zealand
The New Zealand Memory of the World Programme was established by the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO in 2010.
International
There are over 60 Memory of the World programmes worldwide.
Asia and Pacific
In the Asia Pacific region, many libraries, archives and memory institutions face formidable challenges: economic, climatic and geographic. MOWCAP aims to assist with preservation of and universal access to documentary heritage of the Asia/Pacific region, and also to increase awareness of the existence and significance of the heritage.
Preservation of Documentary Heritage
Our documentary heritage is created in many formats, from traditional paper-based documents to electronic media, magnetic tape, photographic images. Media in all formats become vulnerable to deterioration, improper handling and poor storage.
New formats are constantly being developed to carry data. Inscription to the MOW Register supports continued access to information and ongoing preservation in the most appropriate manner. The MOW Committee can provide advice when assessing nominations.
For advice and helpful information on preservation try the following links:
National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Matauranga
‘Caring for your collections’
New Zealand Conservators of Cultural Material. “We are an association of professional conservators of cultural property employed in public museums, archives, art galleries, libraries and in private practice.”
DigitalNZ Ā-Tihi o Aotearoa
‘Preserving digital content’
International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives (IASA)
A professional association concerned with the care, access and long-term preservation of the world’s sound and moving image heritage.
‘Guideline to Objects’
ARANZ (Archives and Records Association of New Zealand Te Huinga Mahara)
‘Useful Links’ to a range of archival assistance.
Australian Society of Archivists
PARBICA (Pacific Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives)
Guidance for community organisations
Community Net Aotearoa
An online hub where you can find and share resources designed to strengthen community organisations.
Te Papa Tongarewa, Museum of New Zealand
‘Help and support for museums and galleries’
Get practical and strategic support from National Services Te Paerangi. We’ll do everything we can to help your museum, gallery, or iwi reach its goals.