Public History

National archives in Kew, London.

Following on from the consultation that took place this summer in response to The National Archives (TNA) changes to services, TNA CEO Natalie Ceeney invited representatives from the Royal Historical Society, the Institute of Historical Research, the British Academy and the Historical Association, to discuss the situation and in particular to examine ways of improving TNA liaison and communication with the academic community over issues of long-term strategy and organisational direction.

Initial discussion at the meeting, which was held on 29 October 2009, focused on the logistical and financial context for TNA's work, digitisation, continuing TNA participation in academic research projects and in research training, and local archives.

It was agreed that all parties would benefit from closer contacts and communication with TNA, and that, consequently, high-level meetings would be held initially on a twice-yearly basis to discuss strategy, to consider TNA concerns and pressures and to identify ways in which TNA and the academic community could best offer mutual support. Participation in these academic liaison meetings would be based on the present meeting (TNA senior management and the academic representatives) with the possibility of slight augmentation.

In addition, TNA would give consideration to refocusing academic panels so as to bring specialist knowledge to inform future TNA projects (e.g. the future catalogue). The role, composition and operations of such groups would be considered at the first meeting of the liaison group, scheduled in late January/early February 2010. The impact of changes now announced will be closely monitored by this group.