Back
Mapping Information ResourcesA report for HEIRNET byDavid Baker
|
|
|
Initiative |
Accessing Scotland's Past |
|
Physical Address |
Consortium Project: Archaeology Data Service, Fife SMR, RCAHMS, Oracle, SCRAN, Shetland Amenity Trust, West of Scotland Archaeology Service |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Canmore-WEB |
|
Respondent(s) |
Damian Robinson |
|
Brief Summary |
Accessing Scotland's Past is a project linking information held in the National Monuments Record of Scotland (NMRS), three Scottish SMRs and archival holdings of the Archaeology Data Service over the internet. The underlying data held by each organisation remains distributed. There were two aims of the initial Accessing Scotland's Past (ASP) project:
The second phase of ASP built upon the success of the initial project. It examined the feasibility of increasing information provision through integrating the local resources of Sites and Monuments Records (SMRs) within Scotland. By linking these data sources together using the infrastructure of the Internet and the mechanism of metadata, users will have the opportunity to explore data held by national and local organisations. The issues raised in attempting to integrate local (SMR) and national (NMRS) and other (ADS) resources were explored and, where feasible, resolved during this pilot project. The lessons learned about SMR integration during ASP II will inform the integration of the 11 other SMRs in Scotland. |
|
Content |
|
| Geographical Coverage |
Scotland |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject |
|
|
Classes of Information |
Points towards Primary information Secondary migrated records - site level metadata |
|
Media |
Digital but provides information pointers to the physical archive for held at the NMRS |
|
Uses |
Provides site level metadata and pointers
to more detailed information resources. Can be used for
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessible via the ADS Internet site 24 by 7 |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
ArchSearch and Canmore-WEB catalogued in accordance to Dublin Core Metadata
standard |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Airfield Research Group |
|
Physical Address |
35 Lyme Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire SK7 6JX, Tel 0161 483 4851 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Airfield Research Group Archive - individually held sets of records |
|
Respondent(s) |
Barry H Abraham |
|
Brief Summary |
The Airfield Research Group is dedicated to the dissemination of material on the history, architecture, development, current status and use of military and civil airfields throughout the United Kingdom. The `archive' consists of several dispersed individuals each with their own information, some of it jealously guarded, and all vulnerable to retirement / death and dispersal. One member has a list of 3,000 sites used for flying in the UK; another has a list of 2,000 airfield sites with comments. Members have their own database on control towers, hangars and buildings as well as location and layout plans with historical details of activities and development |
|
Content |
|
| Geographical Coverage |
UK |
| Period Coverage |
Modern |
| Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Military and civil airfields; historic buildings and airfields as areas. |
| Classes of Information |
Much primary information |
| Media |
Much of all media except microform. Digital data as text reports, database and graphics. |
|
Uses |
The systems support the conservation of discrete elements |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Paper records made available by holders on request; help is given to enquirers. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Not all group members have databases but those that have exchange floppy disks. No thesaurus is in use. Exchange with other systems is "only by paper or verbally". |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Ancient Metallurgy Research Group |
|
Physical Address |
Department of Archaeological Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP |
|
Internet Address |
http://www.brad.ac.uk/acad/archsci/depart/resgrp/amrg/amrginfo.html |
|
Information System(s) |
Metallurgical sections collection |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Gerry McDonnell |
|
Brief Summary |
The Ancient Metallurgy Research Group is made up of staff and research students of the Department of Archaeological Sciences at the University of Bradford and external colleagues with an interest in metals in antiquity, from bio- and geo-chemical studies of archaeological materials to theoretical considerations of prehistoric and early historic metal making and use. The AMRG support a range of research projects concerned with many aspects of ancient metal production and use from the origins of copper extraction and smelting, through the development, properties and fabrication of copper alloys, to iron working technologies and later historic mining and metallurgy. This work involves the study of a wide range of materials from finished artefacts to ores, refactories and furnace materials, slags and residues. The AMRG also support projects concerned with the development of life history reconstruction from the investigation of trace metals in biological materials and the environmental impact of ancient metallurgy. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
World-wide |
|
Period Coverage |
Bronze Age to Modern Period |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological Sites |
|
Classes of Information |
Much Primary information - metallographic thin sections and analyses |
|
Media |
Database is composed of c. 750-1000 metallographic thin sections, comparative
samples and their analyses and documentation |
|
Uses |
Aside from HE / artefact research the knowledge of the AMRG can be used
to provide information about: |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Limited - physical specimen reference database - need to be in Bradford
to use. Access only through personal contact |
|
Intelligibility |
Specialist database of limited intelligibility to layman, but do provide advice to professional and amateur archaeologists on their slags, ores and metal artefacts |
|
Interoperability |
Limited potential at present but image data could be a useful Special Collection type resource |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Aquarelle |
|
Physical Address |
Dr Alain Michard, Project Manager, ERCIM c/o INRIA, BP 105, F-78153 Le Chesnay Cedex, Fax: +33 1 3963 5114, Email: Alain.Michard@inria.fr |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
Aquarelle |
|
Brief Summary |
Aquarelle is a multimedia information system that allows access to the interrelated multimedia reference documents and primary data of the European Cultural Heritage. Aquarelle enables users to search and obtain data from different sources and locations. Aquarelle also makes the users active in searching for information: working with folders they can not only find data but also share them, add their contribution and make links. Consequently, the Aquarelle folder environment offers the basic functions for authoring, publishing, updating and retrieval of digital data.
|
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
France, Greece, Italy and Britain |
|
period coverage |
Non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
Digital |
|
Uses |
Aquarelle may be used and satisfy the interest of any audience: the power and flexibility of the system helps either users without extensive computer experience or professionals such as researchers, museum curators, urban planners and publishers gain an easy access to the great heritage of data. Aquarelle provides its users with uniform access to a diversified set of databases and has been designed to answer the need of common standards. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
Limited |
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
Z39.50 |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Archaeological Investigations Project |
|
Physical Address |
Archaeological Investigations Project, School of Conservation Sciences, Bournemouth University, Talbot Campus, Fern Barrow, Poole, Dorset, BH12 5BB, Tel 01202 595268, Fax 01202 595255 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Gazetteer of Archaeological Investigations in England 1990-1996 |
|
Respondent(s) |
Web site / OASIS project spec |
|
Brief Summary |
Since the advent of PPG 16, most archaeological fieldwork in England is carried out by commercial archaeological consultants and field units operating to specifications developed by curatorial archaeologists working in local government planning offices. Thus, while many of the consumers of archaeological information sit within Universities, the majority of the producers work in the commercial or governmental sectors. The excavation and assessment reports that result from their work are lodged with the planning offices and the developer clients; they rarely enter the public or academic domains. Since 1990 this immense mountain of grey literature has grown to unimaginable proportions. Yet these data provide the primary resource for any researcher interested in the current state of knowledge about our heritage.
English Heritage, concerned that this new information is being lost, funds an annual data collection exercise to compile an index of archaeological investigations. The results have been published as four hard copy volumes, The Gazetteer of Archaeological Investigations in England, issued as annual supplements to BIAB. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Type sites include Post-Determination and Non-Planning related investigations such as: open area excavations, watching briefs, recorded observations, the archaeological recording of standing buildings, test-pit programmes, and systematic surface collection programmes. Pre-determination desk-based assessments, field evaluations, and environmental assessments with an archaeological component are also covered. Special emphasis is placed on pre-determination development control projects of all kinds. |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary |
|
Media |
Printed text |
|
Uses |
Archaeological sites and monuments |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Published as 6 volumes, given away as a supplement to BIAB |
|
Intelligibility |
Hard copy difficult to search - 6 volumes, 4,500 pages, detailing over 17,000 events |
|
Interoperability |
TMT used in the construction of the database |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Archaeology Data Service |
|
Physical Address |
Department of Archaeology, University of York, King's Manor, York YO1 7EP, Tel 01904 433954, Fax 01904 433939 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
ArchSearch |
|
Respondent(s) |
Tony Austin, Julian Richards, Damian Robinson |
|
Brief Summary |
The Archaeology Data Service (ADS) collects, describes, catalogues, preserves and provides user support for digital resources created during archaeological research. Archaeology is in a special position in that much of the creation of its data results from destruction of primary evidence. Access to data is thus critical in order to test, assess, reanalyse and reinterpret both the data and the hypotheses arising from them. Over the years archaeologists have amassed a vast collection of fieldwork data archives, a significant proportion of which remain unpublished. Access to data, even those which are published, is often difficult or inconvenient at best. The ADS provides an integrated on-line catalogue to its collections and to the collections of other organisations which is available over the internet at: http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/catalogue/ The ADS works with local and national archaeological agencies and those research councils involved in the funding of archaeological research, to negotiate the deposition of project data. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Mainly UK but it is envisages that the collections will grow to encompass world wide project data created by UK based archaeologists |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary - digital excavation archives |
|
Media |
Some paper records and project library |
|
Uses |
Bibliographic searches |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
ArchSearch and Bibliographic databases available over the Internet |
|
Intelligibility |
Although the ADS catalogues its resources to the Dublin Core metadata standard, not all of the resources themselves are constructed using strict terminology control |
|
Interoperability |
ArchSearch fully interoperable Z39.50 enabled system - at present only cross searchable via AHDS gateway. A project is underway to enhance the system and make it fully interoperable with other Z39.50 enabled heritage resources, such as SCRAN, Portable Antiquities and RCAHMS |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Archaeology South East: University College London |
|
Physical Address |
16 Langham Road, Robertsbridge, Sussex, EN32 5DX |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Rape of Hastings Architectural Survey |
|
Respondent(s) |
David Martin |
|
Brief Summary |
The system comprises the results of about 1,300 buildings surveys stored as paper archive at East Sussex County Record Office. David Martin has abstracted analytical data on extensive building elements for about 1,000 buildings (excluding barns etc). Publications have already been prepared on windows, doorways and walling. The system is `live' insofar as it has potential for other elements to be extracted and published, but mothballed insofar as David Martin has no time at present to use or develop it further. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
About 250 square miles at the east end of Sussex |
|
Period Coverage |
1250 - 1750, i.e. later medieval and post-medieval |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All vernacular buildings (CRO archive); houses excluding barns, industrial etc in database |
|
Classes of Information |
All primary material - original surveys |
|
Media |
Paper archive at CRO: written material, plans and photographs. Digital database |
|
Uses |
Research and publication of research results |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
The paper archives in the CRO are in the public domain. D Martin has the database which is not widely advertised. |
| Intelligibility |
The database is a bespoke system probably only usable properly by those computer-literate people interested in the detailed architectural topic. |
| Interoperability |
The database is a stand-alone system. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Association for Industrial Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
c/o AIA, School of Archaeological Studies, Leicester University, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, Tel: 0116 252 5337 (after 2.00pm) |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Index Record for Industrial Sites |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ms Isabel Wilson |
|
Brief Summary |
IRIS is a recording project co-ordinated by the AIA which aims to encourage local industrial archaeology societies and individuals to contribute to the enhancement of county Sites and Monuments Records and the National Monuments Record for the industrial period. The scheme provides a recording procedure and form, with a handbook, including wordlists, to guide consistent data collection.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
All but principally post medieval to modern
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings and landscapes, artefact collections
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary abstracted
|
|
Media |
Principally paper records and photographic media. |
|
Uses |
Designed to inform the range of conservation activities supported by local and national monument records and to supplement the generally weaker information resources held for the industrial history in SMRs and NMRs.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information gathered under IRIS is accessible through local SMRs and NMRs where the scheme has been adopted actively; there is no centrally resourced database.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed to be used by and for interested non-professionals; output intelligibility will depend on individual record holding authority.
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Association for the Study and Preservation of Roman Mosaics (ASPROM) |
|
Physical Address |
Hon. Sec. Stephen Cosh, 38, Oaklea, Ash Vale, Aldershot, GU12 5HP |
|
Internet Address |
mailto:honsec@asprom.org |
|
Information System |
A catalogue of every Roman mosaic discovered in Britain. |
|
Brief Summary |
The aims of the project are to create a complete record of every Roman mosaic discovered in Britain comparable to those existing or in preparation in other countries of the former Roman Empire. The record would consist of a corpus (complete catalogue) of every Roman mosaic discovered in Britain in its archaeological context to be published in four volumes in colour by the British Museum Press. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK |
|
period coverage |
Roman |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
Roman mosaics |
|
classes of information |
Primary |
|
media |
Based on original tessera by tessera paintings and line drawings by the authors, Dr David S Neal and Stephen R Cosh and original engravings and photographs
A collection of paintings and drawings donated by the authors to the National Collection held by the British Museum.
An archive of all other material accumulated during research to be lodged with the paintings for future studies |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bedford Borough Council |
|
Physical Address |
Bedford Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford, Tel 01234 353323 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Accessions Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ann Inscker |
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary because museums not mandatory, but having an accessions register for a defined collecting area is a professional requirement of MGC registration |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Northern Bedfordshire down to Ampthill (wider than Bedford Borough) |
|
Period Coverage |
non-period specific - as defined by collecting policy |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological artefact collections and historic artefact collections. One accession number per site: selective detailed accessioning, with the deposited paper archive intended to cover general accessioning. |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary. 12,000 + approx estimate |
|
Media |
Much of all except no digital records and microfiche; some X-rays |
|
Uses |
Museum collections. Educational, tourism and leisure activities informed, but directly from the collection rather than the accessions register. Used routinely by planning and environmental services and other local museums, primary schools and universities. Occasionally by local and national heritage organisations, archaeological consultancies, secondary schools and further education colleges, local record office, community groups and popular media. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
There is no direct use of the accessions register: people ask about objects. There is some x-ref from acc reg to publications. The existing acc register is on A/Rev which is not useful. Information accessible but limited over physical conditions, usability and intelligibility; sensitivity over valuations for insurance. Copyright relates to some photographs. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Thesaurus: simple names list used consistent with BCAS BAT. Hertfordshire simple names list used for social history. Various thesauri are used for different parts of the collection. Routinely to HER / SMR and occasionally to NMR. Occasionally to and from other local museums records and national museums records; to and from county record office over social history; from local libraries and research groups / societies; to universities. Routinely from field recording units and to Portable Antiquities project. Occasionally to specialist research organisations. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bedfordshire County Council |
|
Physical Address |
Heritage & Environment Section, Environmental Services Group, County Hall, Bedford MK42 9AP |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Environment Record |
|
Respondent(s) |
Stephen Coleman |
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary: Council policy and PPG15/16 |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Bedfordshire County |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Most of all discrete identifiable or defined designated items represented in the county; no area-based identities; some biological heritage including hedgerows; most archaeological artefact collections |
|
Classes of Information |
Some primary information, most secondary migrated and abstracted. 14,000 in database; 2,500 awaiting accessioning. |
|
Media |
Much paper ms / typescript, drawn / graphic, printed text, photographs / slides; some printed maps, digital records, recorded audio and video tapes; little microfilm / fiche. Digital is some only: one large keyword database and spatial GIS data. Exegesis has been obtained and migrated but without enhancement. MapInfo to be obtained and linked. |
|
Uses |
Infosystem intended to inform conservation of all discrete elements in historic environment (though assisting museum collections), strategic policies and planning, overall management activities, and community / social involvement, including research. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Disseminated through own staffed library with some information in another staffed library (County Record Office Search Room). Database accessible on a single computer not capable of remote access. A non-standard thesaurus is used, but the system is moving towards RCHME's because it is embedded in Exegesis. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Information exchange is two-way and occasional with adjacent SMRs, NMR, local museum records, County Record Office, local and specialist research groups. It is two-way and routine with EH's RSM and the lists of listed buildings and with the County Field Archaeology Service. Information is routinely supplied to the Defence of Britain project and other information systems. The system is available for use by others, but there are limitations of space and it is effectively by appointment. Staff assistance is usually needed to interpret for non-experts. On-line searching is limited by the key-word database but full manual retrieval is possible. A small amount of information is sensitive and confidential. Virtually all users have to come through the record manager. Routine users are the local planning, countryside, development, utilities, estate / property managers and the county field archaeology service. All the others are occasional, except the nationals - library, record office, nature conservation organisation and countryside agency. - Resources are needed to take on board new categories, develop the database
and retrieval facilities. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bedfordshire County Council |
|
Physical Address |
County Hall, Bedford, MK42 9AP |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Bedfordshire & Luton Archives & Record Service |
|
Respondent(s) |
Kevin Ward, County Archivist |
|
Brief Summary |
Effectively mandatory - Councils have duty to keep records but national government shies away from official acceptance of mandatory status. KW supplied useful `Statement on collecting policy'. Relevant points
include: |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Local authority areas of Bedfordshire County and Luton Unitary |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Discrete identifiable archae sites, hist bldgs, cons areas, parks & gardens |
|
Classes of Information |
Holds much primary info, some secondary migrated and little secondary abstracted Approx 430 cu m of archives |
|
Media |
`Much' of all media except digital which is `little'. Digital is much text reports, some spatial data on GIS, and little databases and images. |
|
Uses |
Intended to inform conservation of discrete elements, strategic policies
and planning, overall management activities, and community and social
involvement. Formal collecting policy covers documents |
|
|
Usage tends to be direct or through record manager according to case for most organisations. Usage is routine for all except utility providers, and occasional for most national organisations, nature / countryside organisations and community groups |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information system is used by others. Access is physically limited by space; access to confidential information is limited generally or until a `release' date; copyright is an issue over reproduction. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Info dissemination through paper records at a staffed record centre. A web-site mainly includes service information, but some catalogue information also. Catalogue information shortly to be installed on a computer database. GIS has been obtained including software for digitising images. Archives-on-line is a national strategy for a national database, Z39-50 enabled, using an international standard Archival Description (ISAD(g)) and pursued through a national A2A (Access to Archives) project and, as at BLARS, business plans of individual services, No thesaurus or word-list but consistent house style for listing information in catalogues. Exchange with other systems: routinely with HER, other LROs, NRO, local libraries, estate or property survey, specialist research organisations; occasionally with NMR, HB Stat Lists, Nat Libraries, local & national research groups, university academic research, field recording organisations, DefBrit project |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bedfordshire County Council Archaeology Service |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's Church Archaeology Centre, St Mary's Street, Bedford MK42 OAS, Tel 01234 270006 |
|
Internet Address |
Email bcas@dial.pipex.com |
|
Information System(s) |
Bedfordshire Artefacts Typology |
|
Respondent(s) |
Holly Duncan |
|
Brief Summary |
The Bedfordshire Artefacts Typology is a system created for non-ceramic finds in Bedfordshire. It is designed to hold information about the best example of each type and then list other occurrences. The system is intended to inform the conservation of / research into archaeological sites, to promote consistency of terminology by BCAS and with local museums, and to help interested active local societies. It is discretionary but use of it is required (always successfully ?) in curatorial briefs and specifications |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Bedfordshire only, for which terminology standardised |
|
Period Coverage |
System is not consciously limited by period |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological artefacts - provenanced fieldwork and metal detector finds |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, potential museum links to provide secondary migrated and abstracted. 300 entries, 581 terms |
|
Media |
Media held are much drawn / graphic material and digital records. Digital data is much text reports and databases; graphics / images "not yet". Information is disseminated on a single non-internet computer with the system. A future aim is to get rid of paper by scanning images in directly. |
|
Uses |
There are no contacts with the HER / SMR because of non-matching terminology; contacts with local museums are only occasional due to resource constraints; there are no contacts with national research groups or the few active local societies, nor with national museums, universities or research organisations. There are occasional contacts with other fieldwork recording organisations. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The system is available for use by other specialists, but only by arrangement because it is in a locked building. Information is not easily interpreted by a non-expert. Due to resource shortages the system is used only internally and by the museums. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Word list is internally developed and predates mda: embedded. There is a need for linkages between Historic Environment Record (=SMR), Portable Antiquities Project, Museums and research interests. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bedfordshire County Council Archaeology Service |
|
|
|
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's Church Archaeology Centre, St Mary's Street, Bedford MK42 OAS, Tel 01234 270006 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Bedfordshire Ceramics Type Series |
|
Respondent(s) |
Anna Slowikowski |
|
Brief Summary |
See attached note: The Ceramic Type Series (CTS). System is discretionary but use of it is required (always successfully ?) in curatorial briefs and specifications. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Core is Bedfordshire but the aim is regional |
|
Period Coverage |
From early Iron Age to post-medieval; early prehistoric pottery coded differently |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
System for archaeological artefact collections. Also contains a bibliography, dating parallels and kiln sources. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, potential museum links to provide secondary migrated and abstracted. CTS is linked to individual site data-bases |
|
Media |
Media held are much paper typescript (fabric descriptions), little drawn graphic material and much digital records. Also sherds type series and thin-section slides. Digital data is much text reports and databases. |
|
Uses |
The system is intended to inform the conservation of / research into archaeological sites, to promote consistency of terminology by BCAS and others working within Beds. and with local museums, and to help interested active local societies. The system is available for use by other specialists, but only by arrangement because it is in a locked building. Information is not easily interpreted by a non-expert. Copyright resides with Beds. County Council. System is occasionally used by local archaeology and history groups and local museums. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information is disseminated on a non-internet computer with the system networked throughout the building, or through inspection of the sherds and paper descriptions. A future aim is to get rid of paper by scanning images in directly, and link to GIS for regional distributions. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Uses own codes in building up ceramic types series empirically: embedded There are no contacts with the HER / SMR because of non-matching terminology. Contacts with local museums are only occasional due to resource constraints, with the museums holding a list of codes and common names for pot brought in, rather than for application retrospectively to collections; there are occasional contacts with a few active local societies. There are occasional contacts with other fieldwork recording organisations. Need for linkages between Historic Environment Record (=SMR), Portable Antiquities Project, Museums and research interests. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
BIBLINK |
|
Physical Address |
The British Library, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7BQ; Tel 01937 546591, Fax 01937 546586 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: ross.bourne@bl.uk |
|
Information System |
Information about the existing numbering schemes for «traditional» paper publications (e.g. ISBN, ISSN) and use of these schemes for electronic documents has been collected and analysed. The same has been done with information about existing and emerging standards in the Internet community and in the publishing industry. |
|
Brief Summary |
Project BIBLINK was launched on 1st April 1996 with funding from the European Commission's Telematics Applications Programme. BIBLINK seeks to establish links between national bibliographic agencies (NBAs, which are usually part of the national library) and publishers of electronic documents for the purpose of exchanging bibliographic data. The BIBLINK project has the overall objective of furthering the development and improvement of national bibliographic services by establishing a link between the parties concerned. It is intended to deliver an interactive prototype/demonstration system which will enable publishers of electronic documents to input and transmit an agreed minimum level of data describing the documents to national bibliographic services, allowing those services to enrich the data (for example, by the application of authority control for proper names or the addition of subject information) and retransmit it to the publishers. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
BIBLINK is sponsored by the European Commission and involves the national libraries of France, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and the United Kingdom, along with UKOLN at the University of Bath (UK) and the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Spain). |
|
period coverage |
|
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Bournemouth University, School of Conservation Sciences and Institute of Archaeology, UCL |
|
Physical Address |
Fern Barrow, Poole. DORSET BH12 5BB, Tel 01202 595178, Fax 01202 595478 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Rock Art Pilot Project (RAPP)
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Andrew Fulton |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
A pilot project to examine the research, conservation, management and presentation of rock art in the UK. It includes assessment of regional, national and international importance; a rapid survey of national rock art distribution; validation and experimental work in select sample transects (in Northumberland and West Yorkshire) ; analysis of damage; review of monitoring and recording techniques; review of approaches to presentation and display of rock art panels; preparation of project design for a UK wide project
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
Prehistoric
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Primarily archaeological sites and specifically rock art items; system will also include some information relating to designed historic landscapes, historic landscape analysis, biological heritage and archaeological artefact collections.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary, secondary migrated and abstracted. Anticipated 5000 rock art 'panel' records in pilot phase.
|
|
Media |
Principally paper, printed text, digital (text, database, images, spatial data, GPS/CAD plots). Some drawn/graphic material, photographs and printed maps |
|
Uses |
Anticipated outcomes only at this stage in project |
|
|
Conservation of rock art sites and objects and related countryside and estate management, educational and tourism activities. Information, during data gathering and as project output, will include flows to and from NMR and SMRs, local research groups, universities, estate inventories; from RSM, local and national museum records, local and national record offices, national library, national research groups, archaeological field units /consultancies, specialist research organisations and others.
|
|
Functionality |
Anticipated outcomes only at this stage in project
|
|
Accessibility |
During pilot data gathering and analysis stages, there are limited resources to accommodate public enquiries; some information is sensitive. Ultimately remote access to the data is envisaged using a Web site for a publicly searchable database; also access via deposit with SMRs / NMR?
|
|
Intelligibility |
At present system has no 'user friendly' access interface but design of this is envisaged for final output.
|
|
Interoperability |
Controlled vocabulary for specialist terms plus RCHME thesaurus. Public access to digital database is envisaged as one of main outputs. High potential for interoperability.
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The British Council Electronic Information Services |
|
Physical Address |
Bridgewater House, 58 Whitworth Street, Manchester M1 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
The information services offered by the network of 200 libraries, information and resource centres are diverse. Each centre acts as a gateway to Britain by offering general and education information about the UK, producing comprehensive web pages and, where ever we are open to the public, has access to web services. The network also exporters of UK information, publishing and educational services and products to win business in new and greater shares of international markets. |
|
Brief Summary |
The British Council has a presence in over 100 countries and promotes international educational, cultural and technical co-operation. The Electronic Information Services team is responsible for delivering library automation around the world. Over the next two years the team will be responsible for a migration project to rollout a single library system (ALICE) to many overseas offices. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
Worldwide |
|
period coverage |
|
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The British Institute of Organ Studies |
|
Physical Address |
Computer Laboratory, New Museums Site, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QG, Tel 01223 334702, Fax 01223 334679 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: pgh1000@cam.ac.uk |
|
Information System(s) |
National Pipe Organ Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Director: Dr M D Sayers (information from web-site) |
|
Brief Summary |
The NPOR was founded by BIOS in 1991. It provides index information on organs produced by surveys undertaken by largely expert volunteers. It includes three linked databases, the NPOR, an index to documentary sources in the British Organ Archive, and the Directory of British Organ Builders. It is accessible on the internet. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Britain; geographic coverage uneven; Scotland "largely incomplete and out of date" |
|
Period Coverage |
Post-medieval |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Organs of all kinds in churches of all denominations |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary material, secondary migrated and abstracted |
|
Media |
NPOR is digital. The British Organ Archive is held by the Archives Department of Birmingham Central Public Library, with primary material, much on microfiche, and secondary sources of written information, pictures, plans etc |
|
Uses |
It is used extensively in conservation work associated with Faculty jurisdiction. |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Internet; BOA in Archives Department of Birmingham Central Public Library |
| Intelligibility | |
| Interoperability |
Some cross-referencing within the three linked databases |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The British Library Research and Innovation Centre |
|
Physical Address |
2 Sheraton Street, London W1V 4BH,Tel 0171 412 7053, Fax 0171 412 7251 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: ric@bl.uk |
|
Information System |
|
|
Brief Summary |
The mission of the British Library Research and Innovation Centre is to advance information and library services by promoting and funding research, development and innovation. It funds research, carried out in a variety of institutions and by numerous individuals, into library and information science and acts as a centre of intelligence on good practice and research in these areas. The British Library Research and Innovation Centre is the only UK research-funding agency to have this specific task. Its funds are used alone, or in partnership with other agencies, to encourage progress in the library and information community, to evaluate the state of knowledge on issues of interest to that community, and to promote the significance of this work. There are three core themes to the work of the Commission:
In Prospects, the three core themes are linked with two themes that are fundamental:
|
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK |
|
period coverage |
NA |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
British Waterways |
|
Physical Address |
Waterway Environment Services, The Locks, Hillmorton, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 4PP |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
1. Architectural Heritage Survey
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Nigel Crowe |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
British Waterway's Waterway Environment Services maintain two related heritage information systems for the historic assets of the waterways in England, Scotland and Wales. Their purpose is to aid good management practice, to ensure relevant statutory procedures are followed (e.g. in relation to class consent for SAMs) and to ensure consistent information is available across an extensive and dispersed estate managed through regional offices. The Architectural Heritage Survey is an inventory of all known historic assets - archaeological sites, historic structures and buildings, along the waterway system. The Heritage Register is a listing of statutorily protected buildings and sites in the British Waterways estate. Related systems within the same organisation include those for biological heritage and for waterway archives and collections (at National Waterways Museum) |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Wales
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, conservation areas, parks, gardens, battlefields, world heritage sites (where within Waterways estate), landscape / urban context.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary information and some secondary migrated.
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed maps, photographs /slides, digital records (text and database). Links with a GIS and use of digital images under active consideration.
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Primary use is internally as an environmental management tool for Waterways historic assets. Employed in conservation-related activities for specific archaeological and historical items, strategic conservation planning, including economic/urban regeneration, countryside management and property management projects, some LA21 and community based conservation schemes. External enquiries for information through the Waterway Environment Services office include planning and land management, heritage, archaeological, educational, tourism, leisure, amenity, community, and commercial uses.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information available on enquiry to Waterway Environment Services office through professional staff but no direct public access to information system. Limited partly by design of system and restricted physical access (available on one site only) but also issues of public safety and sensitivity of some sites.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Proposed expansion to use GIS and digital images would improve intelligibility and usability.
|
|
Interoperability |
Considerable potential advantages and popular market identified for interoperability. Bespoke thesaurus and data structure could provide basis for this together with enhancement with digital images |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
British Waterways |
|
Physical Address |
Waterway Environment Services, The Locks, Hillmorton, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 4PP |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
2. Waterways Environment Heritage Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Nigel Crowe |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
See Waterways Environment Heritage Survey above
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England Scotland and Wales
|
|
Period Coverage |
Post medieval
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Statutorily protected sites and buildings and registered parks and gardens, world heritage sites.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary migrated.
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed maps, digital (text and database)
|
|
Uses |
As for Heritage Survey, see above.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
As for Heritage Survey, see above.
|
|
Intelligibility |
As for Heritage Survey, see above.
|
|
Interoperability |
As for Heritage Survey, see above.
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Building Conservation Centre Trust |
|
Physical Address |
15 Kensington Palace Gardens, London, W8 4QG, Tel 0171-243-5888 (fax 5889). |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
`Intelligent' directory of sources of advice on specialist conservation topics Register of specialist conservation consultants, contractors and craftsmen Register of conservation products and materials Information on exhibitions, courses, seminars and lectures On-line specialist bookshop |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dorian Crone, Director |
|
Brief Summary |
Intended to be a centre of excellence and a `one-stop-shop', offering a comprehensive range of advice and information on materials and products, conservation specialists, services and techniques for the repair and restoration of historic buildings, gardens and landscapes. The customer base would be specifiers, builders, building owners / occupiers, conservation organisations, local authorities, central government and the manufacturing and service base of the construction industry. These are all provisional proposals and subjects of a recently completed Feasibility Study and Business Plan. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Buildings, structures, gardens and landscapes |
|
Classes of Information |
Sources of advice; register of specialist consultants, craftsmen and contractors |
|
Media |
tba - digital |
|
Uses |
Refer to Brief Summary, above |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Intended as one-stop-shop |
|
Intelligibility |
Intended to have `intelligent' librarian |
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Cadw |
|
Physical Address |
Crown Building, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3NQ, Tel 01222 826171 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Scheduled Monument Database |
|
Respondent(s) |
Melanie Francis |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Non- period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites; parks and gardens, landscapes of outstanding historic interest, wrecks - paper records only |
|
Classes of Information |
Some primary; much secondary migrated and abstracted 3241 SAMs; 4 registers of Parks & Gardens; 6 designated wrecks; register of landscapes |
|
Media |
Much text reports, some databases; no GIS, graphics or geophysical |
|
Uses |
Intended to inform conservation of archae sites / mons, pks & gdns, wildlife and habitat cons in assoc with same; strategic planning and land-use planning, minerals planning; econ / urban regen, c/side manag, estate prop manag; community based cons schemes, educ activities, tourism and leisure. |
|
|
Usage occasional by all listed organisations except routine by archaeological field practices / consultancies, further education and universities, National Trust, CCW, agricultural orgn, popular media and commercial organisations. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available for use by others. Limitations from space & facilities, by arrangement only. Contains sensitive / confidential / commercially valuable information; copyright issues exist. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Info dissemination through paper records at office. IT expansion to include GIS, image scanning, database networked for office and home-based FMWs. RCHME thesaurus with Welsh terms added; embedded Info exchange routinely with NMR, occasionally with SMRs, univs, NT, field recording organisations, Forestry Enterprise and Comm, Water Authorities, Utilities, Planning authorities; in future through ENDEX |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Cadw |
|
Physical Address |
Crown Building, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3NQ, Tel 01222 826577 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Listed Buildings Database |
|
Respondent(s) |
Olga Tutton |
|
Brief Summary |
The Cadw listed buildings database is an internal management system deriving from statutory responsibilities for maintaining and updating the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest. Entries are consequent upon a formal signing on and off by the Secretary of State. It also includes information about buildings considered, but not accepted, for listing. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings, with separately stored referenced to Conservation Areas as a locational factor in the assessment of some buildings |
|
Classes of Information |
Mostly primary information gathered by survey programmes, including some secondary material gathered from other sources. About 23,000 entries. |
|
Media |
Paper manuscript / typescript, printed text and digital records which comprise text reports and databases. |
|
Uses |
As an internal data management system supporting a statutory responsibility for compiling and maintaining lists of buildings of special architectural or historic interest, and ensuring that the data can inform Cadw's duties in this field. A useful tool for liaison with local planning authorities. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The system as such is not accessible externally except through sectional published paper copies in book form, the equivalent of English `greenbacks'. Internally, accessible on a network of five machines for CADW staff in responding to casework consultations from local authorities. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
No thesaurus is in use. The system cannot at present, but hopes in the future to be able to scan in images, locate entries on maps through GIS, and translate its outputs into Welsh. There are problems of continuing support arising from its installation by an outside company. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Cadw |
|
Physical Address |
Crown Building, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF2 1UY, Tel 01222 825449 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Drawn archive of Welsh guardianship sites |
|
Respondent(s) |
Rick Turner, IAM |
|
Brief Summary |
There are 130 Welsh scheduled ancient monuments in guardianship. This is the system for the product of the existing drawing office and its predecessors. The working core comprises about 5,000 drawings recently catalogued, supported by written and photographic material grouped by site. It reflects government responsibilities under the Public Records Act and to the Lord Chancellor's Department. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Discrete archaeological sites / monuments and historic buildings, with some elements of World Heritage Sites. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary information and some secondary migrated. the catalogue will contain some 5,000 items. |
|
Media |
Much drawn / graphic material; some paper manuscript / typescript, printed maps, microfilm; little digital records in the form of much text reports / catalogues and some images. |
|
Uses |
The conservation of discrete archaeological sites and monuments and historic buildings in use, thus indirectly facilitating educational and tourist / leisure uses. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The paper records are not available for use by others except by written request. The catalogue of the archive will be put on to a computerised database in the coming months. Digitisation of the records is being considered but at present there is not even CAD in the Drawing Office - even digital material is delivered via the DO as drawings. The issue of security copying is being explored. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
There are dictionary-limited fields relating to the character of the drawing rather than its content. There is routine data exchange with NMRW and CADW's RSM and a rolling programme of transfer of material over 30 years old to NMRW from Cadw. There is a need for a system to which new material can be routinely added. There are no links with SMRs. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England |
|
Physical Address |
Fielden House, 13 Little College Street, London SW1P 3SH, Tel 0171 898 1863, fax 1881 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Cathedral photographs Cathedral casework files Library on church buildings and furnishings (jointly maintained with CCC) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Richard Gem, Ms Linda Monckton |
|
Brief Summary |
A permanent commission of the General Synod of the Church of England. Alterations affecting a cathedral, its contents or its surroundings require the approval of the Commission or a local Fabric Advisory Committee appointed jointly by the Commission and by the Dean and Chapter of the cathedral. The Commission advises cathedrals and issues guidance and advice notices. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
post-Roman |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Cathedrals and their precincts |
|
Classes of Information |
Mostly primary (note - secondary re: library) |
|
Media |
Photographs, paper files, plans and drawings (digital database for casework) |
|
Uses |
Mostly internal use (but library is public) |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Library and photographs accessible by appointment; casework files transfer to Bermondsey archive after 10 years when cease to be current. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Census of Medieval Tiles in Britain |
|
Physical Address |
c/o Society of Antiquaries of London, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London, W1V OHS, Tel 0171 437 9954 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Census of Medieval Tiles |
|
Respondent(s) |
Evelyn Baker (Treasurer) |
|
Brief Summary |
The objects of the Census are the collection and publication of descriptive matter relating to decorated medieval floor and wall tiles in Great Britain. It is not really an information system but has the potential to become one. Work is being done intermittently by volunteers largely on a county basis, but in nearly 20 years only one publication has emerged, covering Wales. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Britain |
|
Period Coverage |
Medieval |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Decorated floor and wall tiles |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary, secondary abstracted and migrated |
|
Media |
Paper files, drawings, notes |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
There must be many incomplete and probably stalled county-based card indices in various places. |
| Intelligibility |
Uncertain |
| Interoperability |
None |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Cinema Theatres Association (not interviewed) |
|
Physical Address |
Flat 1, 128 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6HP |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Archive; `Cinemas in the UK' |
|
Respondent(s) |
refer to Neville Taylor, Membership Secretary at above address |
|
Brief Summary |
The Cinema Theatre Association was founded in 1967 to promote serious interest in all aspects of cinema buildings, from architecture to projection and presentation equipment. It maintains an extensive archive of pictures, architects' plans, and cinema ephemera, and campaigns for the preservation and continued use of cinema buildings. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
19th and 20th centuries |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Cinema Theatres |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary information; presumably secondary migrated and abstracted |
|
Media |
Pictures, architects' plans and cinema ephemera, digital database on web. |
|
Uses |
Information source generally; support for campaigns to preserve and ensure continued use (but note that a year after a cinema has closed the information about it is deleted from the `Cinema in the UK' list |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
|
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Conservare |
|
Physical Address |
European Heritage Forum, Vlamingstraat 4, B-8560 Wevelgem, Flanders, Belgium, Fax (+32) 56.417636 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
|
[have not been able to visit - no connection] |
|
Information System(s) |
|
|
Respondent(s) |
source: Ancient Monuments Society Newsletter |
|
Brief Summary |
Conservare aims to be the European Heritage Forum's focus website 'for Heritage Conservation and Management in Europe' to include both historic sites and museums. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Europe |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
|
|
Classes of Information |
|
|
Media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
|
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Consortium for the Interchange of Museum Information (CIMI) |
|
Physical Address |
Tel: 902-826-2824, Fax: 902-826-1337
|
|
Internet Address |
mailto: info@cimi.org |
|
Information System |
|
|
Brief Summary |
CIMI (the Consortium for the Computer Interchange of Museum Information) is committed to bringing museum information to the largest possible audience. CIMI is a group of institutions and organisations that encourages an open standards-based approach to the management and delivery of digital museum information. Since forming in 1990, CIMI has made substantial progress in researching for the museum community standards for structuring its data and for enabling widespread search and retrieval capabilities. CIMI's work is largely carried out through collaborative demonstration projects that help us to learn how information can be standardised and therefore made accessible electronically. CIMI has developed the most widely adopted Z39.50 profile for the exchange of cultural heritage information, and is sponsoring an international testbed project to connect cultural heritage gateways using the Dublin Core Z39.50. CIMI - the Consortium for the Interchange of Museum Information - works together to bring cultural heritage information to the widest possible audience by:
|
|
Content |
|
| geographical content |
|
| period coverage |
|
| thematic / subject coverage |
|
| classes of information |
|
| media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
| accessibility |
|
| intelligibility |
|
| interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Archaeology education database |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Mike Heyworth |
|
Brief Summary |
The CBA has maintained a database of archaeology education and training courses in the UK over the last 20 years. This covers all aspects of historic environment research and management activity from artefacts studies and laboratory-based studies to field courses, building recording and palaeo-environmental. Published periodically, the most recent 'Handbook' has just been issued in hard copy. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK
|
|
Period Coverage |
not applicable
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
all aspects of learning for the historic environment
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary abstracted
|
|
Media |
Paper, digital (database) |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to support the CBA's role in promoting education and training for archaeological work and as part of the organisation's career and general archaeology information service for the UK. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available as digital resource internally and enquiries handled by staff (including GCSE and A level course information held in database). The published material (Guide to Archaeology in Higher Education (1999)) includes only a small proportion of data held. CBA Briefing is the main vehicle for disseminating information on CE courses and other conferences and seminars. The 1995 directory of 'Teaching Archaeology: a UK directory of resources' is available on the CBA web site.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Published data designed for user-friendly access and use by non-expert
|
|
Interoperability |
Proposal for a digital information resource for archaeology education and training is being developed with the Archaeology Training Forum, SCUPHA and SCACE. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
British and Irish Archaeological Bibliography |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Mike Heyworth |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The British and Irish Archaeological Bibliography is the successor to a series of bibliography and abstract services provided by the CBA since 1940. BIAB provides regular and comprehensive information on publications covering the archaeology of Great Britain and contains references together with short abstracts. It covers publications from 1695 to the present day.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK and Republic of Ireland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
archaeological sites, historic buildings, historic landscape, maritime heritage, artefact collections
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary abstracted. Online database includes c92,000 references and c 31,000 abstracts.
|
|
Media |
Digital database
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Research resource for all aspects of archaeological conservation and information update source for related fields across the archaeological sector.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Published as a twice yearly paper issue; all material published before 1992 is available from the BIAB online database in the ADS Catalogue. Future development likely to include CD-ROM / optical disc.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for academic and professional reference
|
|
Interoperability |
Currently uses a guide to subject index terms for printed bibliography but no bespoke thesaurus for online database. Implementation of a comprehensive thesaurus utilising existing standards and developing new subject areas where necessary is currently being considered in order to provide an indexed search and retrieval system on line. High potential for interoperability and for integration or links with the CSA and CBA in Wales annual site reports series, and excavations /AIP indices to provide an integrated research service for British archaeology. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Database of implement petrology for British archaeology |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Mike Heyworth |
|
Brief Summary |
A database of records of petrologically examined stone implements from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, updated to 1988, based on published work of the Implement Petrology Committee of the CBA. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK
|
|
Period Coverage |
Prehistoric
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, artefacts
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary migrated / abstracted Records for c7,500 implements
|
|
Media |
Digital (Access database)
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform research supporting the conservation of prehistoric sites and monuments and artefact distributions. Used primarily by archaeological researchers and record managers in local authorities, heritage organisations, archaeological units, universities, specialist research groups.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Due to be available in ADS Catalogue in 1999. |
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional use and not easily intelligible to non-expert.
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
Council for British Archaeology, St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
|
email archaeology@csi.com |
|
Information System(s) |
Defence of Britain Database and Archive (DoBDA) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Michael Heyworth CBA; William Foot, Database and Archive Manager Neil Redfern, Information and Access Officer |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Defence of Britain is a survey which aims to gather as complete a record as possible of 20th-century military sites and structures in the UK and to harness the contribution of ordinary people as well as the knowledge of specialists. It is complemented by English Heritage's Recent Defence Heritage project which has assessed the resource through documentary sources.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
20th century |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Principally 2nd World War anti-invasion remains - sites and buildings and associated artefacts
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary data and secondary migrated data. 10,500 records accessioned and anticipated up to 24,000.
|
|
Media |
Paper, some graphic material and printed text, printed maps, photographic media, digital records (text, database and images (for 10% of records)) |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Conservation of sites and buildings; strategic and land use planning; economic/ urban regeneration; countryside management; estate/ property management; LA21 initiatives; community based conservation schemes (in conjunction with Recent Defence Heritage project) Potential users include educational bodies, researchers, community and special interest groups, those developing tourism and interpretation for visitors; interested individuals. During compilation stage used only by the project itself. Information exchanges (from) with SMRs, EH RDH database, Listed Building System, Fortress Study Group; private databases compiled by individuals. Flows of information back to SMRs, RDH etc will develop as project progresses.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Data entry follows controlled vocabulary to data standards established by RCHME (proposed to build into RCHME thesaurus). Aims are to upgrade database to Exegesis-compatible format, to support with a GIS and provide access via Web site to selected datasets and images. External enquiries are handled through the Record Officer and outputs provided in paper. Some data is available through local SMRs who are actively participating, e.g. Hereford and Worcestershire. Final deposit of paper and digital archive not yet confirmed but likely to include NMRs for distribution / access and in suitable format for SMRs which wish to acquire data for their area.
|
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Good potential in terms of technical feasibility with agreement of participating organisations . |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
|
|
|
Information System(s) |
Index to Radiocarbon dates from Great Britain and Ireland |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Mike Heyworth |
|
Brief Summary |
An index of published radiocarbon determinations comprehensive to 1982 and enhanced to date intermittently, supplemented by dates from the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit date list. Currently the index holds data for nearly 5000 dates. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK and Republic of Ireland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, artefacts and ecofacts
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary migrated / abstracted c5000 date entries
|
|
Media |
Digital
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform research supporting the conservation of sites, monuments and buildings, landscapes. Used primarily by archaeological researchers and record managers in local authorities, heritage organisations, archaeological units, universities, specialist research groups.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available in ADS Catalogue; data from laboratories is now available electronically and potential for future access to joint resource?
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional use and not easily intelligible to non-expert.
|
|
Interoperability |
Limited terminological controls and retrievability; searchable but limited value for interoperability without implementation of a commonly agreed thesaurus to control terms. Other C14 databases are maintained nationally for England and Scotland and value of index would be greatly enhanced by integration and introduction of standards. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for British Archaeology |
|
Physical Address |
St Mary's House, 66 Bootham, York YO30 7BZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Listed building casework database |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ms Lynne Walker |
|
Brief Summary |
The CBA has maintained a database of listed building consent application notifications since 1996. Data is held for nearly 20,000 cases and increases annually at c.6000 / year. The database holds key information relating to all notified listed building applications and some Conservation Area consent applications in England and is a unique resource for the strategic analysis and study of national trends in changes to the built historic environment. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
early medieval - modern
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
listed historic buildings and buildings in conservation areas; related data for registered parks and gardens and battle field sites.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary abstracted and a small element of primary cartographic and documentary material
|
|
Media |
Paper, photographic media, digital (database) |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
To support the CBA's role as a national amenity society in advising local authorities on applications for listed building consent and, where relevant, contributing to public inquiries; the system provides broad -based strategic intelligence for the CBA's own planning and programmes for the historic environment although the system 's capability is currently recognised having underdeveloped potential in this area.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available as digital resource, backed by detailed paper documentation, internally; external enquiries are handled by staff . System has a simple, user friendly interface but currently only available in-house.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Good level of intelligibility at level of casework reference but no high level analytical or mediated presentational facility.
|
|
Interoperability |
Proposals are evolving for developing the digital information resource for broader use by amenity societies and as a tool for strategic planning for CBA and others in the national or local conservation network. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Council for the Care of Churches |
|
Physical Address |
Fielden House, 13 Little College Street, London SW1P 3SH, Tel 0171 898 1866, Fax 1881 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Extensive library relating to church buildings and contents, shared with CFCE Parish church files (historic and casework) Slide collection Conservation database and conservation records Register of arts and craftspeople |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Thomas Cocke; Dr Joseph Elders |
|
Brief Summary |
The Council for the Care of Churches was founded in 1921. It is a permanent commission of the Church of England's governing body, the General Synod. Its principal duty is to assist parishes in their task of maintaining their church buildings, contents and churchyards. It publishes a wide range of specialist and general booklets, gives advice, organises conferences, and maintains a library. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
post-Roman |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Churches and chapels |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary material, and secondary migrated and abstracted |
|
Media |
Most types including some digital databases |
|
Uses |
Mostly for internal use, but library, parish church files and slide collection are available for reference by appointment |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The systems are available for external access but tend to be used as casework demands. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Funds are being sought to rationalise the Historic core collection and improve its accessibility. There is some exchange with NMR over the slides collection. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Countryside Agency |
|
Physical Address |
John Dower House, Crescent Place, Cheltenham, GLOS GL50 3RA. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
1. The Character of England: Countryside Character initiative |
|
Respondent(s) |
Carol Somper |
|
Brief Summary |
The Countryside Agency is the new statutory body (resulting from merger of the Countryside Commission and the Rural Development Commission) working to conserve and enhance the countryside as a place to live and work and an asset to enjoy. The CA's approach, in partnership with English Nature, to mapping and describing the character of England's countryside, developed by the former Countryside Commission, is a combination of computer based statistical analysis (TWINSPAN), together with application of structured landscape assessment techniques. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Twelve national datasets for analysis (summary data of attributes in 1 km squares across country) include landform; ecological character; land capability; surface geology; farm types; settlement patterns; woodland cover; field density and pattern; visible archaeology; industrial history; and designed parkland
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary migrated from other information systems (e.g. NMR, OS mapping, British Geological Survey) but primary datasets commissioned for field density and enclosure patterns, and for industrial history, work undertaken by Lancaster University Archaeology Unit.
|
|
Media |
Printed maps, digital records (text reports and spatial information as vector and raster data), and photographic media. |
|
Uses |
Designed as a tool for countryside planning and rural management. Relevant for historic environment including historic character attributes, to inform strategic policies and planning. Used by local authorities, nature conservation bodies, countryside, rural and agricultural agencies, |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Principally available externally as a series of published reports in hard copy. Datasets are held for internal and professional consultation. IPR issues over access to some of datasets. CA does not have a primary role as a public service data manager but does plan to develop a dataset from its proposed Rural Services Survey which may include relevant datasets for / from HERs.
|
|
Intelligibility |
No user-friendly interface or output direct from information system; hard published output provides general introduction and explanation of approach and results in local terms.
|
|
Interoperability |
Potential as served resource for local land use planning and historic character mapping and added value when boundaries available as spatial data through joint project with Forestry Commission. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Countryside Agency |
|
Physical Address |
Dacre House, 19 Dacre Street, London SW1 0DH.. |
|
|
Tel 0171 340 2900
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
2. Local Heritage Initiative |
|
Respondent(s) |
Canda Smith |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
Currently a pilot project, the Local Heritage Initiative aims to help people to record and care for their local landscape, landmarks and traditions. 'Local heritage' is a broad concept which takes in natural, built, archaeological, and industrial heritage and local customs and traditions. If the Countryside Agency is successful in its HLF funding application for the main project, the full-scale national initiative will be launched later in 1999. Swavesey Art and Archaeology Projects is used here as a sample pilot project to illustrate the range of activities and outcomes.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, historic areas, landscape features, biological heritage, maritime heritage, artefact collections, oral history, customs and traditions.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary abstracted
|
|
Media |
Paper, drawn/graphic, printed text, printed maps, photographs / slides, digital (text), records, paintings,
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Swavesey Art and Archaeology project, as an example, introduced a community to local heritage and art through a programme of information sessions, focused around an archaeological excavation, looking at all aspects of the landscape, wildlife, built heritage, social and general history. Its outputs included workshops for local people; artworks, photographic records, and written records about the parish for the community; exhibitions and a mini-conference about the village; leaflets and displays for local people and visitors, IT-based information resources, library resources, a publication about the parish and two new village artworks.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Highly accessible local heritage project using multi-media and diverse investigation techniques to engage a range of ages and backgrounds in gathering information about their locality. Range of public outputs (publications, IT outputs and artworks) to document the project's achievements. It is envisaged that the physical body of material outputs would be stored locally by relevant record and information managing organisations (e.g. library, local record office, SMR) and accessible via their systems, and high level data in a central system.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Outputs devised, by local people, to be intelligible and engaging to local people.
|
|
Interoperability |
High potential. The full-scale initiative includes a provision to hold high level data on the outputs of individual projects in a central electronic database. It is envisaged that selected material be submitted via a Web-based form using Dublin Core as basis for meta-information structure. "It is expected that an LHI-specific extension to the Dublin Core would be drawn up to implement an extensible hierarchy of categories to provide a taxonomy of local heritage information". Database standards compatible with ODBCS using SQL. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Countryside Council for Wales |
|
Physical Address |
Plas Penrhos, Penrhos Road, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2LQ, Tel 01248 385000; Fax 385510 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
LANDMAP |
|
Respondent(s) |
Richard Kelly, Historic Landscape Officer |
|
Brief Summary |
Integrated landscape assessment and decision-making process covering landscape as a series of layers: land-use; land function; geology, geomorphology and hydrology; bio-diversity; history and archaeology; culture; visual amenity. The system is GIS-based and identifies character areas based on combinations of the basic layers mapped out geographically. The intention is to provide land managers with information that will aid landscape management and decision making throughout Wales. The exercise is being run in partnership with Welsh local and regional park authorities. Complete coverage of Wales is anticipated by 2003-4. A handbook will be available by the end of the year. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Hierarchical classification of the historic aspect of the landscape which is then mapped into a number of discrete historic aspect areas. |
|
Classes of Information |
Level 4 - site-based information derived from regional SMRs used in detailed LANDMAP exercises only. |
|
Media |
GIS-based digital records. |
|
Uses |
See summary above. Organisations: local authority planning / development service; national and local archaeology or heritage organisation; private developers; agri-environment initiatives; public and private utilities |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
The database is available upon request. |
| Intelligibility |
GIS MapInfo familiarity is required |
| Interoperability |
GIS MapInfo. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Diocese of Southwell Church History Project |
|
Physical Address |
c/o Diocesan Office, Dunham House, Westgate, Southwell, Notts, NG25 OJ11, Tel 01636 814331, Fax 01636 815084 |
|
Internet Address |
(probably) southwellchurches.hist@nottingham.ac.uk |
|
Information System(s) |
Southwell DAC Church History Project |
|
Respondent(s) |
Revd David Harper, Stephen Langford (DAC Secretary) [conference presentation] |
|
Brief Summary |
This is a volunteer-compiled but professionally monitored system designed to make information on the historic churches of the Diocese available on the web to the widest possible audiences for multiple uses, and provide a model for other dioceses. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Diocese of Southwell |
|
Period Coverage |
Late Saxon to modern |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Anglican parish churches |
|
Classes of Information |
Mostly secondary abstracted and migrated: some primary images and plans |
|
Media |
Digital: texts, plans, photographs |
|
Uses |
An aid to DAC, Archdeacons, Church Architects, Conservators; provides information for hobbies, church guides, schools packs, churches tours; helps parish appreciation and care of churches; etc |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Site will go `live' on the internet shortly (September 1999) with up to 6 churches entered initially |
| Intelligibility |
Entries compiled by volunteers are edited for consistency, accuracy and intelligibility |
| Interoperability |
Links with Inventory of War Memorials (IWM) and other church-related databases including BIOS National Pipe Organ Registry |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Distributed National Electronic Resource (DNER) |
|
Physical Address |
Joint Information Systems Committee, Northavon House, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QD |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
N/A |
|
Respondent(s) |
Alicia Wise, JISC Collections Manager |
|
Brief Summary |
The overall aim of the Distributed National Electronic Resource Strategy is to develop a framework that will support the creation of an easily accessible, comprehensive information resource that can be used by teachers, learners and researchers within and beyond the UK higher education community. Within this overall aim the strategy has five main objectives:
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
|
|
Classes of Information |
|
|
Media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
|
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
EARL |
|
Physical Address |
4th Floor, Gun Court, 70 Wapping Lane, London E1 9RL, Tel 0171 702 2020, Fax 0171 702 2019 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: info@earl.org.uk |
|
Information System |
EARLweb - EARL's reference tool for key information resources on the Internet. A clear, topic based approach Ask A Librarian - EARL's national reference enquiry service for the public. Public Internet Access in UK Public Libraries - EARL's directory of public libraries offering Internet access to the public in the UK. Includes contact details. MagNet - EARL's searchable magazine, journal & newspaper finder, including Newsplan (demo version) Familia - EARL's directory of family history resources in public libraries in Britain and Ireland. Policy Issues - Policy Issue pages, put together by the EARL Networked Services Policy Task Group. Euroguide - Subject gateway to websites containing information about the European Union. Developed by the EARL European Information Task Group Signposts - A database giving information sources for the supply of materials in languages other than English, developed by the EARL Language & Literature Task Group. Music - Details of the sets of orchestral parts available for loan at Westminster Music Library. Scottish Community Information Gateway to information resources selected and maintained by Scottish EARL. ISBI - A database of nearly 3,000 independent and fee paying schools in the British Isles |
|
Brief Summary |
The EARL Consortium of UK public libraries and associated organisations was established in 1995 to develop the role of public libraries in providing library and information services over the network. EARL's partners are all committed to providing access to the network from all branches across their authority and to develop services to meet the needs of everyone in their community. EARL now has over 140 partners from local public library authorities and other related organisations, including a number of associated partners and supporting organisations such as the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Department of Education and Employment, the Library Association, the UK Office for Library and Information Networking (UKOLN) and the British Library. Through collaboration, EARL aims to demonstrate and expand the ability of public libraries to deliver networked information and knowledge-based services. EARL's vision is to facilitate the development of public library networked services to the wider population, providing access to the broadest range of materials, services and training initiatives across the network, the country and the world. |
|
Content |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
eLib |
|
Physical Address |
Chris Rusbridge, Programme Director, The Library, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, Tel 01203 524979, Fax 01203 524981 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: c.a.rusbridge@warwick.ac.uk |
|
|
|
|
Information System(s) |
Hybrid Libraries AGORA BUILDER - Birmingham University Integrated Library Development and Electronic Resource HEADLINE - Hybrid Electronic Access and Delivery in the Library Networked Environment HYLIFE - Hybrid Libraries of the Future MALIBU - Managing the Hybrid Library for the Benefit of Users Large Scale Resource Discovery (Clumps) projects CAIRNS - Co-operative Academic Information Retrieval Network for Scotland M25 Link Music Libraries Online RIDING - Z39.50 Gateway to Yorkshire Libraries The Clumps projects maintain a dissemination page at: http://www.shef.ac.uk/~riding/docs/dissemal.html Digital Preservation The CEDARS Project - CURL Exemplars in Digital ARchiveS Access to Network Resources ADAM: Art, Design, Architecture & Media Information Gateway Biz/ed: Business Education on the Internet CAIN: Conflict Archive on the INternet CATRIONA II EEVL: Edinburgh Engineering Virtual Library IHR-Info OMNI: Organising Medical Networked Information ROADS: Resource Organisation and Discovery in Subject-based services RUDI: Resources for Urban Design Information SOSIG: Social Science Information Gateway Digitisation Internet library of Early Journals DIAD: Digitisation in Art and Design Electronic Document Delivery EDDIS: Electronic Document Delivery SEREN: Sharing of Educational Resources in an Electronic Network in Wales JEDDS: Joint Electronic Document Delivery Software Project LAMDA: Electronic Document Delivery in London and Manchester Infobike Electronic Journals CLIC: A parallel electronic version of an established journal - Chemical Communications. Internet Archaeology: an international electronic journals for archaeology PPT: Parallel Publishing for Transactions The Superjournal project The Electronic Stacks Project Electronic Seminars in History Electronic Reviews in History EPRESS: Electronic Publishing Resource Service DeLiberations on Teaching and Learning in Higher Education NewsAgent for libraries: a personalised current awareness service for library and information staff JILT: The Journal of Information, Law and Technology Open Journal: The integration of electronic journals with networked information resources Sociological Research Online Learned Societies Support Service Electronic Short Loan Projects ACORN: Access to COurse Readings via Networks ERCOMS: Electronic Reserve Copyright Management System PATRON: Performing Arts Teaching Resources ONline ResIDe: Electronic reserve for UK Universities Images DIGIMAP: National on-line Access to Ordinance Survey Digital Map Data HELIX: Higher Education Library for Image eXchange MIDRIB: Medical Images: Digitised Reference Information Bank On Demand Publishing eOn: Electronic On Demand Project Phoenix Edbank HERON On-Demand Publishing in the Humanities (was Only Connect) SCOPE: Scottish On Demand Publishing Enterprise ERIMS: Electronic Readings in Management Studies Eurotext: A Collaborative Resource Bank of Learning Materials on Europe Pre-prints CogPrints: The Cognitive Sciences Eprint Archive Education-line: Electronic Texts in Education and Training Formations WoPEc: Working Papers in Economics Quality Assurance ESPERE: Electronic Submission and Peer Quality Review Project Supporting Studies MODELS: MOving to Distributed Environments for Library Services IMPEL2: Impact on People of Electronic Libraries (IMPEL2) FIDDO: Focused Investigation of Document Delivery Options Training and Awareness Ariadne: A parallel Web and print newsletter for librarians and information scientists CINE: Cartoon Images for Network Education EduLib: Educational Development for Higher Education Library Staff Netlinks: Networked Learner Support Netskills: Network Skills Training for Users of the Electronic Library SKIP: SKills for new Information Professionals TAPin: Training and Awareness Programme in networks |
|
Brief Summary |
The aims of the eLib programme are not overtly research. Its main remit is to provide a body of tangible, electronic resources and services for UK Higher Education, and to affect a cultural shift towards the acceptance and use of said resources and services in place of more traditional information storage and access methods. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK HE |
|
period coverage |
Non period specific |
|
media |
Digital |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
All web based |
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
|
0171 973 3000
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Ancient Monuments Laboratory (LABFILE) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Marcus Guillen / Clare Jewess |
|
Brief Summary |
LABFILE is an information system for the management of English Heritage's Ancient Monuments Laboratory's work and collections. It includes records of objects /samples analysed and conserved, the AML reports catalogue, and a stores inventory. Related but separate datasets for geophysical survey data, osteology, dendrochronology, environmental archaeological bibliography, and other areas. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Channel Islands (formerly UK while part of DoE)
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
archaeological sites, historic buildings, registered parks, gardens and battlefield, world heritage sites, archaeological artefact and historical artefact collections (latter two overlap with CAS and Historic Properties Collections Management system)
|
|
Classes of Information |
A mix of primary and secondary (migrated and abstracted) information. c250,000 object records - 5039 report records
|
|
Media |
Much paper and printed texts; also some quantities of drawn/graphic material, printed maps, photographs/slides, digital records (databases and some images); smaller quantity of microfiche, and radiographs. Addition of spatial data system being considered. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
High level collections and reports management tool for the AML's programme and services for conservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings, museum collections, historic urban areas. Routine data exchanges with field units and consultancies; occasional exchanges of data with SMRs, UADs, NMR, RSM, local and national museum records, local and national research groups and universities, and specialist research organisations. Users (all mediated enquiries through staff) are local authorities, heritage organisations, museums, history/archaeology groups, universities, National Trust.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Internal access on computer network for EH staff only, including remote dial up access for out stationed staff. External enquiries are served by staff (using LABFILE as appropriate for detailed searches). Reports, texts and technical literature also available in Ancient Monuments Library (via staff). On line access is already in place for AML reports (six month listings), geophysical survey database, environmental archaeological bibliography on EH Web site, all periodically updated but no direct access to system. Access direct to the system is limited physically by staff resources and space. System contains some sensitive information, with potential commercial value and affected by issues of intellectual property rights.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for access by professional staff and to serve enquiries at technical / expert level. The output is not easily interpreted by a non-expert and may require editing or update before suitable for dissemination.
|
|
Interoperability |
System uses bespoke thesaurus which provides vocabulary control. Availability of some datasets for public access on Internet is a model for publication of other digital datasets and high potential for interoperability in selected areas. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
Archaeology Centre, Fort Cumberland, Fort Cumberland Road, Estney, Portsmouth PO4 9LD.
|
|
|
02392 856700
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Central Archaeology Service Projects and Archives System (CASPAR) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Adrian Brown, Information Manager |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
CASPAR provides high level information on the activities of the Archaeology Centre and information and archive management facilities for its collections.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
CASPAR only covers artefact collections indirectly, but it is directly concerned with managing documentary archives
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary information with some secondary migrated and abstracted Total record numbers in all relational databases not quantifiable but system manages records for 460 CAS projects, 507 fieldwork events, 5207 related archive items.
|
|
Media |
Principal media are paper, drawn/graphic material, printed text, photographs/slides, digital records and some printed maps, microfiche and microfilm. Digital data comprises text reports/catalogues, databases, graphics/images and autocad data, with some spatial data on GIS and geophysical data. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
CASPAR designed to inform conservation-related activities for archaeological sites and monuments, historic buildings, historic areas, museum collections, strategic planning, estate/property management, education and tourism / leisure. Routine information exchanges (to and from) with SMRs, NMR, RSM, and local museums; occasional exchanges (to and from) with UADs, LBS, national museum records, local and national research groups, universities, field units, Defence of Britain project, specialist research groups, and other information providers. Routine use of information from the system by national heritage organisations; occasional users are local authorities, local heritage organisations, local and national museums, history and archaeology groups, field units, schools, National Trust, popular media and commercial organisations.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
System is accessed internally through a computer network and records may be consulted on request through a staff member. All external information requests are managed by a member of the staff and there is no direct access to the system. There are physical (space and staff resources) and policy limitations (sensitive data, commercially valuable data, IIPR issues) on access.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Information from the system is not always easily interpreted by non-expert and may require editing or update before suitable for external issue.
|
|
Interoperability |
CASPAR uses a variety of thesauri including, RCHME and mda objects, and also bespoke thesauri for vocabulary control. It uses the NMR's Monument/Event model, and conforms to MIDAS. Planned developments include a linked site database system and links to existing systems in EH (e.g. LABFILE), enhancement with scanned images, digital photographs and new datasets. High-level index data for the system is theoretically suited to interoperability. Some event information already available via NMR and ADS catalogue and there are plans to increase availability of information on Web and access to information about digital archives. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
Designed Landscapes Team (Archaeology & Survey), 23 Savile Row, London W1X 1AB |
|
|
Tel: 0171 973 3000
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Parks and Gardens Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Harriet Jordan / Fridy Duterloo-Morgan |
|
Brief Summary |
English Heritage is enabled by Section 8C of the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953 to compile the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest. Its main purpose is to identify those parks and gardens which are of a high level of historic interest in the national context, and to encourage owners and others to appreciate, maintain, repair and enhance such sites.. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
medieval to modern
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Parks, gardens and other designed ornamental landscapes which may also have archaeological sites and historic buildings situated within them. Will in the future be cross-referenced to statutorily protected items, i.e. scheduled ancient monuments and listed buildings
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary and secondary abstracted, some migrated (statutorily protected items). Approximately 1340 entries on Register: c. 1800 sites, identified through a review programme, merit further research and - if appropriate - further consideration for inclusion in the Register |
|
Media |
Paper, printed maps, photographs /slides, digital records (text and database); some graphic material. |
|
Uses |
The Register provides a national focus for the documentation, recording, analysis and understanding of historic parks, gardens and designed ornamental landscapes. In addition to internal use for recording and conservation resource management, designed to inform strategic and land use planning, economic/urban regeneration, countryside management, estate/property management, LA21 and community schemes, education activities, tourism and leisure developments and historic landscape research. Current usage is mainly by local planning authorities, owners and land managers and heritage and countryside organisations. Information flows are to the UK Database of Historic Parks and Gardens (qv), to local Sites and Monuments records, and from the various county-based Review Programmes (eg Manchester Metropolitan University) |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessible in published form (currently 46 county volumes) as a printed list of entries with descriptions of each site. These are held by local planning authorities and libraries and are available for sale from EH. A new Register will be published (in regional volumes), with the first volume (NW Region) to be available in 2001. The database includes additional information and will be cross referenced to other statutory designations (listed buildings and other scheduled ancient monuments). Access to information from the database, and to paper records for the research and documentation on which Registration is based, whether internal or external, is by arrangement with the Designed Landscapes Team. The system itself is not designed for open use: it contains some sensitive information
|
|
Intelligibility |
Good for published Register entries.
|
|
Interoperability |
None at present . Controlled vocabularies/ data standards are in use and in line with RCHME and Listed Building System. Future developments include adding spatial data to HSIS thus linking with other heritage datasets; also considering enhancement of database with digital images and, ultimately, on line public access to the published Register via English Heritage Web site. High potential for interoperability. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
|
0171 973 3000 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Battlefields Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Andrew Brown |
|
Brief Summary |
The Register of Historic Battlefields has been compiled (like the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England, under powers in the National Heritage Act 1983-4) as a descriptive record of nationally significant, historic battlefield sites. While it does not provide statutory protection, the Register provides English Heritage's view on the extent of the areas of historical significance of selected battlefield sites and the most important amenities within and around them to ensure that are properly considered in the planning process. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage
|
England |
|
Period Coverage |
Viking /medieval / post medieval
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Battlefield sites either assessed for inclusion in, or actually registered on, the Battlefields Register, including information about relevant historic structures and buildings, archaeological features and statutory designations.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary information (migrated and abstracted), with some primary documentary and field data gathered for specific case studies. Records exist for 76 battlefields and sites, of which 43 fields and 13 sites are fully documented as entries in the Register. |
|
Media |
Paper, printed maps, photographs, digital data (text reports, database and spatial data). |
|
Uses |
Aims to inform local authority planning and conservation sections, owners and occupiers, amenity groups, community interests, tourism and leisure activities about the significance, amenity and conservation issues of historic battlefield sites; used in local authorities, by property managers, for education and research, by national and local heritage, conservation, amenity and tourism organisations, media. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
System is not available for direct public access and enquiries are handled by English Heritage officers. Information from the system is normally supplied in hard copy to enquirers and to Regional offices (until HSIS on line). It is also available from relevant local authorities who are all supplied with extracts from the system for their area. No wordlists or indexes or data structure to aid thematic searches. |
|
Intelligibility |
Suited to non-expert enquirers, as well as relevant for professionals, students and researchers
|
|
Interoperability |
Battlefield boundaries currently being digitised for HSIS, with attached basic summary data, which will create links with LBS and RSM data. On-line access to the Register is favoured, via EH Web site, and other sites being considered to increase Register's value for social history research and local interest groups, as well as the European potential. At present not structured for interoperability but good candidate. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
|
Tel: 0171 973 3000
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Properties Inventory and Collections Management |
|
Respondent(s) |
Trevor Reynolds (0171 973 3482) |
|
Brief Summary |
English Heritage manages over 400 historic properties and this information system is used for inventory and collections management information for the archaeological, archive, architectural, art, industrial and social history collections, which are associated with, and located at its historic properties. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological, historical and art objects and archive collections |
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary inventory and some secondary abstracted documentation. Over 100,000 object records in system. |
|
Media |
Largely digital (text reports and databases) with some paper files and photographic records. |
|
Uses |
Primary use is as a research and management tool for English Heritage (and the other organisations for which EH manages properties) curatorial and collections managing functions, and feeds into the organisation's wider public presentation functions. Other uses include serving external enquiries from local and national museums, record offices, history and archaeology groups, and students, for educational and research purposes. Exchanges with other information systems include the National Trust, the Royal Collections and the Historic Royal Palaces organisation. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The information system is accessed on an internal network available at national and regional offices and in major EH historic properties. External enquiries about the collections are handled by curators using the database for queries and providing hard copy where relevant. There are security issues over information access for vulnerable items. |
|
Intelligibility |
Present system does not have user friendly interface for non-expert and there are no plans to develop one at present |
|
Interoperability |
System replacement is in hand to upgrade from out of date mda standards (introduced over 10 years ago) and non-standard wordlist to Multi Mimsy using mda archaeological thesaurus and collections management based on SPECTRUM. Wherever relevant following NMR data standards practice using tried and tested systems to meet shared standards and to maximise opportunities for future interoperability. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
|
0171 973 3000 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Monuments Protection Programme |
|
Respondent(s) |
Graham Fairclough |
|
Brief Summary |
The Monuments Protection Programme is a comprehensive review and evaluation of England's archaeological resource designed to collect information which will enhance the conservation, management and public appreciation of the archaeological heritage. One of its principal aims is to identify monuments and sites whose national importance and conservation needs justify statutory protective designation. MPP programmes have included systematic national review and evaluation of SMRs (for which monument class descriptions (MCDs) provided classification and characterisation); of industrial archaeology; of medieval settlement; of Roman-British rural settlement; of archaeological remains in towns; and of twentieth century defences. Other preliminary assessment projects have included those for prehistoric lithic scatter sites, cathedral closes, churches and chapels, air photograph sites, and field systems. Most national thematic projects are undertaken remotely by other bodies. A series of historic landscape assessment projects which also form part of the programme are managed locally
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, defined historic areas, world heritage sites, historic landscape character analysis, historic town surveys, historic settlement pattern and hierarchies, some archaeological artefact collections
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary, some secondary migrated and abstracted.
|
|
Media |
Primarily paper, photographs/slides and digital records; some drawn/graphic material; printed texts and printed maps. Digital data is largely text reports and databases, some spatial data (held remotely) and little graphics /images. The figures below indicate Industrial archaeology: selected site assessments for over 2000 sites Recent Defence Heritage: over 10,000 plotted sites Monument Class Descriptions, c230. Medieval settlement c 2000 selected assessment sites |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform the full range of conservation related activities, except for museum collections. There are information exchanges to and from SMRs and NMR, local and national research groups, estate / property inventories, universities, archaeological field units and consultancies, Defence of Britain project, biological heritage records, also information flows to RSM and LBS. Direct users of MPP holdings are limited to specialist enquirers (local and national archaeology / heritage bodies); datasets are held remotely by parent consultancies; some data is migrated to RSM /LBS (q.v.); but for the most part data is distributed to local SMRs for wider use in environmental management , education, public information, nature conservation, and amenity use.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Varied. MCDs available on EH Web site. Other data held in paper or digital form may be consulted by arrangement through a member of staff at EH or in NMR, or is held remotely by specialist consultancies. Publication of Atlas of Medieval Settlement planned. Recent Defence Heritage review also feeds into Defence of Britain Project (q.v.) and published volumes. Industrial archaeology reviews published in hard copy reports.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Largely designed for professional and specialist use and no user friendly interface or output.
|
|
Interoperability |
Use of a number of specialist vocabularies bespoke for particular research areas, as well as RCHME Monument thesaurus. Outputs are disparate and served by other information systems locally but identified key national data sets (e.g. for medieval settlement, industrial archaeology) would be a valuable as a served digital resource. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
National Monuments Record Centre, Great Western Village, Kemble Drive, SWINDON SN2 2GZ. |
|
|
Tel: 01793 414600
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
National Monument Record (MONARCH) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mike Evans, Head of Archives |
|
Brief Summary |
The National Monuments Record (NMR) curates and provides access to the information resources of the Royal Commission on the Historical Monuments of England, now merged with English Heritage. MONARCH is the NMR's main database of information on the architectural and archaeological heritage covering archaeological sites, excavations and archives, architectural monuments, and maritime sites within England's territorial waters. Separate summaries are provided below for the Microfilm Index, Air Photograph Index and Images of England project. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, designed landscapes and gardens, world heritage sites, and maritime heritage; also some coverage of archaeological artefact collections.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Principally primary and secondary abstracted information with some migrated. MONARCH holds approximately 330,000 monument, 150,000 event, 100,000 archive and library records. INCAS cataloguing database 33,000 records Hard copy archive held by NMR amounts to an estimated 12,000,000 items.
|
|
Media |
Holdings are in all media categories; digital records include text, databases, graphics/images and spatial data, with further planned developments in the latter two areas.
|
|
Uses |
Intended uses span the defined range of conservation activities, with the exception of museum collections. Information exchanges are to and from SMRs, UADs, RSM, LBS, PRO, local and national research groups, and universities, field units and consultancies, specialist research bodies. Also information exchange flows out to landscape assessments, local and national museums records, local and national libraries, estate / property inventories, Defence of Britain project, other data service providers. Routine users of the NMR include the range of defined organisations and use by individual members of public for local and family history research. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessible internally on a computer network. External enquirers access by arrangement in NMR public search room (self service and managed access to some data) or using 15 day free remote services / 3-day express remote service for business users. Education Services are provided direct on line. The Excavation Index is available on line via ADS. The main archive catalogue should be searchable on line in medium term. NewHIS development will introduce Windows environment and an area of shared spatial data to provide linkage between datasets and integrate archive catalogue.
There are some physical limitations to accommodate enquiries at NMRC and access is also affected by issues over copyright.
|
|
Intelligibility |
System designed for professional and academic use, and output not easily interpreted by non-expert / no user friendly interface.
|
|
Interoperability |
MONARCH uses RCHME recognised standards (MIDAS and monument type thesaurus ) and several national and international standards (e.g. MARC, ACR2, ISAD, MAD, CIDOC and Council of Europe standards for recording archaeological and architectural sites and monuments). Several datasets are already available as served resources and further developments planned. Potentially suited for development as Z39.50 target. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
National Monuments Record Centre, Great Western Village, Kemble Drive, SWINDON SN2 2GZ. |
|
|
Tel: 01793 414600
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Air Photograph Collection (PHOTONET) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mike Evans |
|
Brief Summary |
PHOTONET is the air photograph cataloguing database of the National Monuments Record |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, designed landscapes, world heritage sites, maritime heritage.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary 2,500,000 records
|
|
Media |
Photographs / slides and digital database, with some images. |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
On-line access to part of the air photograph catalogue to be piloted. Otherwise available as for main NMR collections. Currently no dynamic link with MONARCH but this is a planned development.
|
|
Intelligibility |
System designed for professional and academic use, and output not easily interpreted by non-expert / no user friendly interface.
|
|
Interoperability |
Potential at high level but, subject to success of pilot, of limited value until access to digital images, |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
|
Tel: 0171 973 3000
|
|
Internet Address |
www.english-heritage.org.uk Conservation/Saving our Past |
|
Information System(s) |
Buildings at Risk Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Clare Parfitt |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Buildings at Risk programme gathers information about all Grade I and II* listed buildings and structural scheduled ancient monuments known to English Heritage to be 'at risk' through neglect and decay, or vulnerable to becoming so. For London, information is also held for Grade II listed buildings at risk. The Buildings at Risk (BAR) database is compiled and maintained for internal conservation management use and is used to produce the BAR Register. The BAR Register holds published summary information and images, and is available on the English Heritage Web site; it is also available in print as a national `summary' volume and regional volumes. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
medieval to modern
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Listed historic buildings and structural scheduled ancient monuments; some conservation areas (Greater London)
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary migrated with some abstracted information 2,500+ statutorily protected buildings and structures. 'Deleted' records remain as archive on system as new ones are added.
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed text, photographs /slides, digital (text, database, images) |
|
Uses |
Designed to aid conservation management of listed historic buildings and structural scheduled ancient monuments at risk and related historic context; strategic policies and planning at local and national level; economic/urban regeneration, countryside management, estate/ property management; LA21 initiatives, community based conservation schemes and education activities. Information flows for database are to and from LBS, local authorities, Save Britain's Heritage and other amenity societies; from Greater London SMR, RSM. Usage of database is restricted to internal users within English Heritage. Register is used widely as public reference document and has wide range of potential users: local authorities and property managers, heritage and museum bodies, education and research bodies, amenity groups and commercial organisations. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Register available in published printed and electronic media (via Web site) with images and indexed for searches. BAR management database restricted to internal use, and there are copyright and data protection issues; no electronic link with other EH databases / statutory management systems, or with SAVE's BAR database at www.savebritainsheritage.org.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Good public interface for Register; databases suited to internal professional use.
|
|
Interoperability |
Register and database are indexed with controlled vocabulary based on RCHME thesaurus. High potential for interoperability but at present no dynamic links within EH or beyond. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
National Monuments Record Centre, Great Western Village, Kemble Drive, SWINDON SN2 2GZ. |
|
|
Tel: 01793 414600 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Images of England |
|
Respondent(s) |
Victoria Fenner |
|
Brief Summary |
Images of England is a project to create an Internet home for England's listed buildings. Using volunteer photographers to capture images of all listed buildings, it will be a 'point in time' record of the built heritage in every part of the country. A major heritage access and participation project for the millennium, Images of England combines community-based, local involvement with free public access to the resource created on the Internet. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
All periods of buildings and structures, as listed in 1999
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Statutorily listed buildings of special and historic interest as of 1999. 360,000 entries and photographs.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Images primary; text secondary migrated (from Listed Building System).
|
|
Media |
Digital photographs and digital records (text and database and currently investigating use of spatial data) |
|
Uses |
Predicted conservation applications are in managing historic buildings and areas, and related community, education, and tourism activities. Education and the general public are key target groups. Potential users included local and national heritage organisations, archaeology and history societies, schools colleges and universities, local and national amenity groups, property and estate managers/agents, the media, tourists agencies and interested individuals. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
When fully operational will offer free on-line picture library at its Web site, possibly using LBS thesaurus (RCHME) and certainly the LBS indices for text searches. Links with LBS and other English Heritage datasets via HSIS are possible, but outside the scope of the IoE project.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed to have friendly public interface.
|
|
Interoperability |
Structure designed for interoperability. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage NMR |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB 0171 973 3000 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
List Management System |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ian Hardwick |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The List Management System (LMS) supports statutory listing casework and includes information about proposals for listing, reports assessing special architectural and historic interest and advice to the Department.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings under consideration for listing
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary abstracted (supplied in proposal for listing) 20,000 list proposal records on system.
|
|
Media |
Principally digital (supported by paper files and photographs) |
|
|
|
|
Uses |
System designed to support process of assessing proposals for new listings; includes sensitive information and advice to the DCMS and not available for external access. |
|
|
Routine information flows to and from NMR (Monarch) and to LBS where new entries added to List.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Internally available only in EH Listing Branch. Restricted access for policy reasons.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Suited professional use.
|
|
Interoperability |
System shares common controlled vocabularies and indexing with LBS and has adequate links with it for interoperability purposes. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X 1AB, tel 0171 973 3000 |
|
|
(LBS also at National Monuments Record Centre, Great Western Village, Kemble Drive, SWINDON SN2 2GZ.)
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Listed Building System (LBS) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ian Hardwick |
|
Brief Summary |
The Listed Buildings System was developed as a joint initiative between DNH (now DCMS), English Heritage and the National Monument Record. It is an indexed, computerised list of the statutorily protected buildings of special architectural and historic interest in England. It provides usable access to information in the listing documents. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Listed historic buildings; links to Register of Historic Parks and Gardens database and Monarch. Cross referred to World Heritage Sites, National Parks
|
|
Classes of Information |
Principally primary information from the list description. 370,000 records on system; number of building items possibly 500,000.
|
|
Media |
Principally digital database (supported by paper files and photographs); printed paper output published by DCMS ('green backs'). |
|
Uses |
Designed to provide public information about statutorily designated historic buildings; and conservation management of historic buildings, historic urban areas, and for use in land use planning. Routine information exchange from DCMS for new list entries, and occasional transfers to SMRs and UADs. Users include local authorities, development agencies, estate/property managers, national amenity societies and media. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The LBS is currently available on an internal computer network (London and Swindon) due for upgrade to Windows 95 and link to HSIS July 1999. External enquirers may access system via staff at NMR or English Heritage HQ and hard copy from the system is available as appropriate. Published printed volumes of the list (green backs) are available in local libraries and local authority offices for public reference and are updated by occasional issues for new entries.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Output suited to public enquiries but system designed principally for professional use: ultimately Images of England will provide user-friendly access.
|
|
Interoperability |
RCHME thesaurus of monument types, embedded, provides vocabulary control through indexes. Well suited for interoperability. Possible future developments may include an on line, address-based enquiry service on the Internet. 'Images of England' will provide a publicly available digital version of the same data-set with images and possibly a less sophisticated search facility than current LBS functionality |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage (National Monuments Record) |
|
Physical Address |
National Monuments Record Centre, Great Western Village, Kemble Drive, SWINDON SN2 2GZ. |
|
|
Tel: 01793 414600 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Microfilm Index |
|
Respondent(s) |
|
|
Brief Summary |
The NMR Microfilm Index describes all those archaeological archives for which the NMR holds microfilm copies, including excavations, desk-based assessments, evaluations, watching briefs, and geophysical surveys, building surveys, and field walking projects. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archives relating to archaeological sites, historic buildings and areas, and landscapes.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Principally primary information, some secondary abstracted
|
|
Media |
Digital (database) and microfilm |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform research supporting the conservation of sites, monuments and buildings, landscapes. Used primarily by archaeological researchers and record managers in local authorities, heritage organisations, archaeological units, universities, specialist research groups. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
At NMR Centre by arrangement and subset of full index information on line via ADS Catalogue.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional and research users; output not easily understood by non-expert
|
|
Interoperability |
Fully integrated with national data standards and thesauri. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Heritage NMR |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB 0171 973 3000 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Record of Scheduled Monuments |
|
Respondent(s) |
Graham Orbell, English Heritage Record Office |
|
Brief Summary |
A schedule of monuments is compiled and maintained by the S/S under powers in the 1979 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act. The Record of Scheduled Monuments is a work-flow system which supports EH's duty to provide scheduling advice to the DCMS. It includes inventory, operational and management information. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Scheduled archaeological sites of national importance, including a few historic buildings
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary with some secondary migrated (from NMR and SMRs) and abstracted. At highest level 28,000 records but much larger numbers of archaeological items below this.
|
|
Media |
The RSM is a digital system (text and database) but supported by paper files system |
|
Uses |
Primarily used to support the conservation of archaeological sites and monuments and in countryside management. Information exchanges with SMRs, NMR, local and national research groups, universities, estate/ property managers, field units, Defence of Britain project, biological heritage records |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessed internally on a computer network; system not available for use by others and contain sensitive information. External enquiries are managed by staff and some paper records may be consulted by arrangement. It is proposed to link the RSM with HSIS. Published county lists provide summary information. Schedule entries are notified to local authorities and land registry.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed as a professional and work flow tool and output not easily interpreted by non-expert.
|
|
Interoperability |
Vocabulary controlled, RCHME thesaurus; potential for interoperability at high level. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
English Nature |
|
Physical Address |
Northminster House, Peterborough PE1 1UA, tel 01733 455000 |
|
Internet Address |
Email: enquiries@english-nature.org.uk Web site: www.english.nature.org.uk/ |
|
Information System(s) |
Sites of Special Scientific Interest (ENSIS) information system. Habitat datasets |
|
Respondent(s) |
George Hinton |
|
Brief Summary |
English Nature promotes the conservation of England's wildlife and natural features. Set up by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and is a statutory body, it is the Government's principal advisor on nature. It designates the most important areas for wildlife and natural features as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and secures the sustainable management of these sites. It manages National Nature Reserves and Marine Nature Reserves (N/MNRs). It implements, on behalf of Government, international conventions and EC Directives on nature conservation; also English Nature's share of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan in England. Its information systems relate directly to its primary statutory duties under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the management activities which flow from it. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
n/a |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
SSSIs information, national habitat data for e.g. ancient woodland inventory. |
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary data and some secondary migrated. EN is principally concerned with habitat data (e.g. grassland, fresh water types, heathland) and site management data; species data collected at local level is compiled in local record centres with reciprocal information flows where relevant. Datasets included 4045 SSSI site records (1 million hectares land) 23,000 ancient woodland sites 30,000 owner/ occupier records 20,000 management units within SSSIs
|
|
Media |
Paper records, printed maps, photographic slides and digital data which include text reports, databases and spatial data (SSSI boundaries as vector data tagged with ID code). |
|
Uses |
Primary use of systems is in the performance of EN's statutory role in designating SSSIs and N/MNRs and their management (operational and site management information and for tracking statutory notification / licence procedures); and the provision of this information to other environmental planning and managing organisations, professionals and researchers. Educational, public and community interest value in this information is recognised and the production of relevant, accessible datasets is in active development. These sectors are currently served by EN's publications series and information on Web site. |
|
Accessibility |
Internally available through an Intranet for English Nature's own statutory and management functions in central and local offices. For external enquirers specific information is available on enquiry to the English Nature HQ or local offices, and where appropriate visits by appointment, but there is no public search facility. Issues of data protection and vulnerability of habitats are factors in limited external access to the current information system. Some information exchange takes place with other statutory and environmental management organisations such as local authorities, FRCA, Countryside Agency, MAFF, Local (Biodiversity) Record Centres. There is an extensive publication series including free literature.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Not designed for non-professional/ non-expert enquiry.
|
|
Interoperability |
Issues relating to data protection and the vulnerability of some habitats mean that access to ENSIS will remain protected. The EN Web site provides general information about the organisation's role, activities and position statements on current issues and strategies; useful 'Partner Organisations' page gives links to other related web sites (CCW, SNH, JNCC, Countryside Agency, Wildlife Trusts etc). Currently no on-line search facility is available via Internet but EN is developing its plans for an information service, with a geographical menu (possibly based on the Government Regional Office boundaries), to provide summary information about local habitats, SSSIs and NNRs for general enquirers. Interoperability with the National Biodiversity Network of Local Record Centres is designed into the development programme for the network. Standardised wordlists exist, adopted UK-wide for species lists, condition and threat types, and controlled vocabulary for EC designated SACs (EC Directive on Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations 1994). |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
European Community Fifth Framework Programme (FP5) |
|
Physical Address |
CORDIS Customer Service, B.P. 2373, L-1023 Luxembourg, tel +352-44 10 12 2240, fax +352-44 10 12 2248
|
|
Internet Address |
mailto: helpdesk@cordis.lu |
|
Information System |
|
|
Brief Summary |
The Fifth Framework Programme (FP5) sets out the priorities for the European Union's research, technological development and demonstration (RTD) activities for the period 1998-2002. These priorities have been selected on the basis of a set of common criteria reflecting the major concerns of increasing industrial competitiveness and the quality of life for European citizens. The Fifth Framework Programme has two distinct parts: the European Community (EC) framework programme covering research, technological development and demonstration activities; and the Euratom framework programme covering research and training activities in the nuclear sector. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
Europe |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
European Heritage Net (English Heritage) |
|
Physical Address |
English Heritage, 23 Savile Row, London W1X1AB |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Kate Clark and Nigel Clubb |
|
Brief Summary |
European Heritage Net is an EC / Council of Europe project to develop a European network of linked web sites for the cultural heritage. The aim is to provide a one-stop shop in each member country which provides summary information about, and a gateway to other information resources for, public policies, organisational frameworks, conservation practice guidance, national inventories, sustainability initiatives etc. relevant for the cultural heritage. The resource will be multi-lingual (English / French / Spanish) and work is currently proceeding with developing a multi-lingual thesaurus and text content for the UK site. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All |
|
Classes of Information |
|
|
Media |
Digital |
|
Uses |
Information service to professionals and interested public for conservation in Europe |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Aims to offer Internet access as one stop shop for conservation and heritage management information across Europe |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Unknown |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Fife Council Archaeology Unit |
|
Physical Address |
Planning Service, Fife House, North Street, Glenrothes, Fife KY7 5LT. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic environment conservation (SMR and related environmental data)
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Peter Yeoman |
|
Brief Summary |
The information system supports the Council's statutory functions and duties, and in particular its advice on all aspects of conservation management for the historic environment, with specific reference to development control in accordance with NPPG5 and PAN 42. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Fife local authority area
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, conservation areas, designed landscapes, world heritage sites, archaeological sites and areas of regional importance (as listed in Fife Structure Plan), Scottish Boroughs Surveys. GIS links SMR point data with other spatial data from historic land-use character pilot studies (2), current land use , and Fife Nature's databases for habitats and species.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary migrated and abstracted. 9,600 SMR entries; 300,000 habitat and species entries.
|
|
Media |
Paper records, drawn/graphic material, printed texts and maps, photographs /slides and digital records (text, databases, graphic/images and spatial data), little geophysical survey data |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Informs conservation related activities across the defined range, with exception of museum collections. Information flows to NMRS (and historically from it), from statutory list / schedule, and from its own commissioned data gathering projects for designed parks and gardens and maritime Fife. Routine users include the local authority's own services, development agencies, utility providers and archaeological field practices / consultancies. Wide range of occasional users across most types of organisations (except libraries, national record office and leisure / sport)
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The system is accessed internally through a group of separate computers. External enquiries are handled through a member of staff and there are limited physical facilities for direct access to consult records. Some information is sensitive, of commercial value and affected by IPR issues. Planned developments include joint HLF bid for SMR enhancement and to facilitate interoperability for SMRs and NMRS, and a Web site with information on current projects and 'Best of Fife archaeology'.
|
|
Intelligibility |
System designed for professional use and no user friendly access; information output is not always easily understood by a non-expert
|
|
Interoperability |
Fife SMR class lists are integral to current NMRS development of extended thesaurus; participant in the Accessing Scotland's Past (q.v.) initiative. High potential for interoperability if this project develops as planned. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Folly Fellowship |
|
Physical Address |
Tel 0181 348 1234 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Folly Fellowship Inventory |
|
Respondent(s) |
Gwyn Headley |
|
Brief Summary |
The Folly Fellowship is a charity founded in 1988 "to preserve, promote and protect for the benefit of the public, follies, grottoes and garden buildings." It campaigns to save threatened buildings and parkland, publishes a quarterly magazine, runs a Measured Drawings Award for architectural students and runs a picture library. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific (but presumably mainly post-medieval onwards) |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Follies, grottoes and garden buildings, probably about 70% of population, represented on system as contributing to all categories of identifiable or defined designated items, plus historic landscape character analysis. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary and some secondary abstracted. 2,967 records. |
|
Media |
Much photographs / slides and digital records - Picture Library contains over 7,000 high quality large format and 35mm transparencies; some paper; little drawn / graphic and printed maps. Digital data comprises much text reports / catalogues and databases, and some graphics / images. |
|
Uses |
Informs conservation of discrete archae sites, hbs and designated hist areas, estate / property management; community-based conservation schemes, educational activities, tourism and leisure. Routine use for further education college, university, national amenity group, popular media; occasional for all others except utilities, property / estate manager, field unit, primary / secondary school, nature / countryside bodies |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
All access through member of staff. Available for use by others but physical limitations of space and staff mean by arrangement only |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Info dissem through library / record centre by unpaid part-time volunteer. On a single computer. There are funding dependent plans to make the FF Inventory accessible as a searchable database on the Internet. No thesaurus. Plans to implement MIDAS. Exchanges info routinely with lists of listed HBs, and occasionally with all other organisations except SMRs, UADs ands landscape character assessment dbases, Port Antiq, DefBrit, bio / env systems |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Forestry Commission |
|
Physical Address |
231 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 7AT. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 334 0303; 0131 314 6182 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Forestry Commission historic environment information |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr Tim Yarnell
|
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Forestry Commission is the Government Department responsible for all aspects (economic, social, recreational and ecological) of sustainable forest management in Great Britain. Its information system is designed to support this role and the Government's objectives for forestry management. The system includes detailed information on historic aspects of the environment relevant for Forestry Commission activities. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England, Scotland and Wales
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Principally archaeological sites, historic buildings, conservation areas, world heritage sites, biological heritage, geological sites; some registered historic areas, historic landscape character analysis, historic settlement pattern and hierarchies.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary, migrated and abstracted; small element of primary woodland information. Datasets include 1000 scheduled monument records [TY to provide more]
|
|
Media |
Much digital, drawn /graphic, photographs/ slides; some printed text, printed maps; little paper, microfilm, microfiche. Digital data is largely databases linked to spatial data, some images and text. Planned growth in use of digital imaging and GIS. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Information has been compiled primarily to inform Forestry Commission strategies and programmes and is designed to aid conservation of discrete elements (except museum collections and urban areas), strategic policies and planning, overall management activities and community and social involvement. Routine information flows to and from SMRs, NMRs, RSM, landscape character assessments, biological heritage records, other environmental databases (e.g. Environment Agency), and local research groups; occasional exchanges with local/national record offices, national research groups, universities, estate/property inventories, field units, projects (Portable Antiquities, Defence of Britain), specialist research organisations and commercial partnerships.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Internally information is accessible on a network of computers, and Intranet. Subsets of the GB-wide data held centrally are also held locally in regional offices. Access to the information system is not available outside the organisation; external enquiries are handled through staff (with the aid of the system) and may include batch data transfers in digital form, as appropriate. Routine users are nature conservation organisations; occasional users include local authorities, development corporations, utilities, estate/property managers, local /national heritage organisations, local national history/ archaeology groups, archaeology field units, education bodies, National Trust, countryside and agricultural agencies, amenity groups, tourism, leisure, media and commercial organisations. The system contains sensitive, commercially sensitive information, some of which is licensed or affected by copyright issues.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Information system is designed for internal use by competent professional and technical staff; no 'user friendly ' interface and information not easily interpreted by non-expert.
|
|
Interoperability |
Majority of data is migrated and compiled according to RCHME thesaurus and controlled wordlists / terms agreed by nature conservation bodies. Interoperability to take advantage of information flows from other datasets is likely to be the main requirement here as acquisition of relevant new datasets is an objective. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Forum for Information Standards in Heritage: England (FISHEN) |
|
Physical Address |
Secretariat based at: English Heritage NMRC, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2GZ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
INSCRIPTION wordlist standard (including thesauri), MIDAS data content standard, Terminology and Concept mapping software and Thesaurus management software developed in-house for the English Heritage Data Standards Unit. |
|
Respondent(s) |
Edmund Lee, Secretary to FISHEN |
|
Brief Summary |
FISHEN provides recognised leadership in archaeological information standards. Its activities range from support of terminology resources in data standards developed by the English Heritage Data Standards Unit, to interaction with external bodies over related topics. FISHEN is well placed to act as a focus for UK-wide standards development in archaeology if membership and scope is widened beyond the boundaries of England.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and the Channel Islands |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Terrestrial and maritime archaeology, historic buildings and landscapes |
|
Classes of Information |
FISHEN deals with thesauri and wordlists from a variety of sources Primary - FISHEN's own Secondary migrated (published thesauri etc) and abstracted (developed word or term lists) |
|
Media |
Majority digital records (text reports, databases), some text reports and catalogues. |
|
Uses |
The thesauri and other wordlists contained in INSCRIPTION can be used to provide terminology control for: Archaeological sites and monuments, Historic buildings, Designated historic areas, Land use planning, Countryside management |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Can buy EH thesauri Is an INSCRIPTION terminology database but this is only available at EH NMR A website hosted by the mda is forthcoming |
|
Intelligibility |
People have difficulties with thesauri - see them as constraints on description rather than as aids. No existing data capture software for thesaurus construction is suitable for use by volunteers and independent users. The English Heritage Data Standards Unit can offer training in thesaurus use and development to overcome perceived complexity. |
|
Interoperability |
A key component for interoperability |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Georgian Group |
|
Physical Address |
6 Fitzroy Square, London W1P 6DX. Tel 0171 387 1720. Fax 1721. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
A manual casework register of all relevant notifications over the last 10 years. |
|
Respondent(s) |
Neil Burton |
|
Brief Summary |
The Georgian Group was founded in 1937, in response to the rising tide of demolitions of London's 18th century buildings. It exists inter alia: to save Georgian buildings monuments parks and gardens from destruction or disfigurement encourage repair restoration improvement of setting to stimulate public knowledge of Georgian architecture planning and taste to promote appreciation of the classical tradition from Inigo Jones onwards. |
|
Content
|
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England & Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
1700 - 1840 |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Most historic buildings; some historic landscapes |
|
Classes of Information |
Some primary information, much secondary migrated, some secondary abstracted. About 10,000 records. |
|
Media |
Much paper manu / type script, drawn / graphic, printed text. Some printed maps, photographs / slides |
|
Uses |
Conservation of historic buildings in use; strategic planning policies and development control. Used by estate / property managers, FE and university use; local and national historical / archaeological / amenity groups. |
|
Functionality
|
|
|
Accessibility |
Information disseminated through paper records in a staffed system, but with all physical and usability / intelligibility limitations for outside enquirers. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Routine information exchange with statutory lists; occasional with NMR, RSM, landscape character assessment, national / local record offices, national library, local / national research groups, estate surveys, specialist research groups |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Greater London Archaeological Advisory Service (English Heritage) |
|
Physical Address |
23 Savile Row, London W1X 1AB |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Greater London Sites and Monuments Record (GLSMR) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Jez Reeve, Manager |
|
Brief Summary |
The GLSMR is a computerised record of information relating to historic buildings and archaeological sites in the 33 boroughs of the Greater London area, containing about 72,000 records. Commenced in 1984 by the former GLC, it was taken over by English Heritage and the initial stage of compilation was completed in 1992. It is an important tool for the management and presentation of the historic landscape, a primary source of information for a variety of planning functions, and a useful source of basic information for academic research. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England - Greater London |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All aspects of the historic environment, including the content of several thematic surveys, the Statutory Lists and the GL BAR survey. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary and secondary migrated and abstracted. |
|
Media |
Much maps. Mostly digital. |
|
Uses |
Principally for planning and management functions, but growing capabilities for remote access by researchers and local societies. |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Within the security constraints of 23 Savile Row the GLSMR is externally accessible for queries. There are remote terminals in some Museums and planning departments. Quarterly updates are circulated to libraries, contractors and local societies. |
| Intelligibility |
|
| Interoperability |
There are links with HSYS and other projects for synthesising information and mapping data. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Royal Palaces |
|
Physical Address |
Curatorial Department, Apartment 25, Hampton Court palace, Surrey KT8 9AU.
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Royal Palaces collections and records management system |
|
Respondent(s) |
Cathal Moore |
|
Brief Summary |
The HRP system is concerned with project, architectural drawing, archive and collections information management for properties and collections in its care. Over 10,000 drawings stored at Tower of London; other records unquantified.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, conservation areas, registered parks, gardens and battlefields, world heritage sites, archaeological and historical artefact collections.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary, and secondary (migrated and abstracted). There are routine information exchanges with statutory heritage datasets, NMR, SMRs (incl UADs) local and national museums, libraries, record offices, and research groups, universities and estate inventories. Users include, routinely, local and national museums, and national heritage organisations; and there is occasional use by local authorities, local and national history / archaeology groups, local heritage bodies, archaeological field practices or consultants, schools; libraries, nature conservation and countryside organisations, amenity groups, tourism, leisure, media and commercial bodies.
|
|
Media |
Much paper, drawn, printed texts and maps, photographic material; some microfiche and microfilm; a small amount of digital data (databases). |
|
Uses |
Information is used to inform the HRP conservation research and activities (archaeology, historic buildings and landscapes) and the management and interpretation of the properties and collections in its care. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Access is by written request to the curatorial department where consultation under supervision may be possible. Some material (e.g. digital surveys) is on restricted access and there are physical limitations of space and security. There are issues of confidentiality and copyright. |
|
Intelligibility |
Records are designed and written for professional use and not easily interpreted by a non-expert. These are largely paper based with manual systems for search and retrieval. Data may require update or editing before it is suitable for access.
|
|
Interoperability |
A review of paper record systems is current and any planned development of digital resources, including inter-operability potential, will take place after this review. Issues include the development of appropriate vocabularies for the specialist and wide range of collections concerned; decisions on the scope and level of information appropriate for the system and for structured relationships with other more detailed systems. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, EDINBURGH EH9 1SH. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 668 8668
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Scotland archaeological project information |
|
Respondent(s) |
Patrick Ashmore Principal Inspector of Ancient Monuments |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The database helps management of the process of bringing fieldwork projects to publication or archiving
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological and palaeoenvironmental projects.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary information. Approaching 1900 records.
|
|
Media |
Primarily paper with digital versions in various unlinked systems.
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Primary use is as a management tool for part of project management. No information exchanges with other systems apart from Finds Disposal (see Collections Management). Internal access over HS network. External enquiries are mediated through the Archaeology section of Historic Scotland.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Direct access to paper and computer information systems is internal only. External (and remote internal) enquiries are handled by staff .
|
|
Intelligibility |
System interface and output is suited to professional and management uses, and not appropriate for general public information.
|
|
Interoperability |
Currently running on Access database. No current links to other systems except Finds Disposal (see Collections Management). It is planned to link other aspects of Project Management. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, EDINBURGH EH9 1SH. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 668 8668
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Scotland collections management system |
|
Respondent(s) |
Josephine Barry, Collections Registrar; Richard Welander, Collections Manager |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
Historic Scotland owns and manages over 300 historic properties and archaeological sites. The system provides inventory and collections management information for Historic Scotland's archaeological, architectural, art and social history collections. The system also includes information on information on assemblages from HS sponsored excavation is held on non-related database
|
|
Content |
|
|
>Geographical Coverage |
Scotland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeology, architectural fragments, art historical and social history artefacts
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary information with some secondary abstracted. Anticipated 50,000 object records when updated (currently 18,000)
|
|
Media |
Primarily paper, photographs and digital media, with some drawn / graphic material and printed text.
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Primary use is as a management tool for historic properties collections. The inventory element of the database includes information which has potential value for educational and research purposes. No information exchanges with other systems apart from Project Management. Ad hoc enquiries from local and national museums, and specialist researchers are mediated through the collections manager.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Direct access to paper and computer information systems is internal only from HS network. It is planned to network with HS Conservation Centre. Dynamic links envisaged with internal photo library, but no others envisaged in the short term with other digital resources in the organisation. External (and remote internal queries, e.g. from staff at individual historic properties) enquiries are handled by staff and hard copy output is provided where appropriate. Although some sensitive information is included, some level of internet/researcher accessibility is envisaged.
|
|
Intelligibility |
System interface and output is suited to professional and management uses, and not appropriate for general public information.
|
|
Interoperability |
Currently running on customised Access database using MDA archaeological object thesaurus and SHIC; proposed move to COLLECTIONS relational database. Potential for interoperability within HS Intranet but may not be justified beyond this in terms of the systems scope and design. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, EDINBURGH EH9 1SH. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 668 8668
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Buildings information system
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr Nick Haynes, Inspector of Historic Buildings |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Historic Buildings information system supports the statutory list of buildings of special architectural and historic interest in Scotland. It provides indexed access to list entries, searchable by address.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary information, some secondary migrated. c. 45,000 listed building entries
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed text, printed maps, photographs /slides and digital records (text and database).
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to support the organisation's research, conservation and management of statutorily protected historic buildings. Routine users include local authorities, owners, architectural and garden historians/archaeologists, estate/property/utility managers, architects, surveyors, solicitors, built heritage consultants, environmental agencies, national amenity groups; occasional users include, local and national history/interest groups, schools, universities, National Trust for Scotland, local amenity groups.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessed only on an internal network with link to NMR Scotland whose staff also have reciprocal access to LB records. The List (currently available published in hard copy) is published in abbreviated form on the HS Web site which can be searched by parish or authority. A CD version, including searchable information on formal procedures related to the listing process, is available for sale. Specific and general enquiries from external sources are handled by professional staff and the education section.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Internal system designed for interrogation by trained professionals; published list provides user-friendly interface for public information.
|
|
Interoperability |
Linked with functionality for RCAHMS since NMRS holds related data for historic buildings, and HS system will share common thesaurus terms if a current RCAHMS pilot is successful. Summary of statutory list is mounted on Web site and internal management system not designed for general public access. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, EDINBURGH EH9 1SH. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 668 8668
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Historic Landuse Assessment: pilot project |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Lesley Macinnes, Principal Inspector of Ancient Monuments |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
In complement to the SNH's Landscape Character Assessment (qv), this project is ' to map the historic landscapes which go together to form modern Scotland and to develop a methodology to input information about the built heritage into landscape debates'. The mapped data are entered in a GIS, linked to an Access database, and accessed via a GUI (Artemis.)
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland |
|
Period Coverage |
All |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, defined historic areas, historic landscape and settlement patterns.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary migrated and abstracted.
|
|
Media |
Drawn/ graphic material, printed maps, digital data (database and spatial)
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
To enable the input of built heritage interests into the management of landscape change: aids conservation of discrete elements and landscape areas, wild-life and habitat conservation, strategic policies, countryside management, estate/property management, tourism and leisure activities
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Currently accessible on computer network within HS /RCAHMS only via Artemis GUI; published report on methodology and pilot studies.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional application.
|
|
Interoperability |
Already has some limited interoperability and has potential for development within the joint Scottish SMR / NMRS initiative |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Historic Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, EDINBURGH EH9 1SH. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 668 8648
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Scheduled Monuments information system |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr G Barclay, Principal Inspector of Ancient Monuments, Ms A Smith Inspector of Ancient Monuments, Mr D Tulloch, Deputy AMAB Manager |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Scheduled Monument information system supports the statutory list of scheduled ancient monuments in Scotland. It provides access to information about statutorily protected monuments, their management and formal procedures related to scheduling, de-scheduling, scheduled monument consents and class consents under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act.1979
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological and historic sites and monuments
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary, some secondary migrated. Direct link to related records including historic landscape character analysis, maritime heritage in RCAHMS NMR obviates need for duplication / migration of inventory data. Over 7000 monuments; 14,000 owner/occupier records; between 15 and 20,000 warden reports on monument condition.
|
|
Media |
Paper, drawn/graphic, printed text, printed maps, photographs/slides, digital records (text, databases, spatial data; some images and some geophysical data). Spatial data in shared GIS resource with NMRS (Artemis).
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to support the organisation's research, conservation and management of statutorily protected archaeological sites and monuments. Routine information flows to and from NMR, SMRs, biological heritage information systems. Users of curator-mediated output include local authorities, private utilities, estate / property managers (incl. Forestry Commission), local and national heritage / amenity organisations, archaeological field practices and consultancies, educational bodies (mediated through education section), universities, nature conservation and countryside / agricultural agencies, tourism / visitor services organisations.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Accessed only on an internal network with link to NMR Scotland whose staff also have reciprocal access to SM records except sensitive management data. Publication of the list of Scheduled Monuments (currently published in hard copy) planned for HS Web site; pilot viewable. Specific and general enquiries handled by professional staff and education section.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Internal system designed for interrogation by trained professionals; published list provides general public information.
|
|
Interoperability |
Linked with functionality for RCAHMS since NMR holds general archaeological data for all scheduled monuments, and SM system will share thesaurus terms if a current RCAHMS pilot is successful. Statutory list is in pilot form in public domain on Web site and internal management system not designed for general public access. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Imperial War Museum |
|
Physical Address |
Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ, tel 0171 416 5353, fax 5379 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
National Inventory of War Memorials |
|
Respondent(s) |
Nick Hewitt, Project Coordinator |
|
Brief Summary |
The NIWM was established in 1989 and is managed jointly by the Imperial War Museum and RCHME (now EH). It was established in response to growing concern about the condition of the nation's war memorials and the lack of information about them, particularly their location. A central record compiled by volunteers assists researchers and historians in a variety of fields, facilitating country-wide comparisons and assessments and providing a source of information for those involved with maintenance and restoration. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific but mostly C20 |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Memorials covering all aspects of warfare: the death of servicemen and women, particular actions, events at a specific location, the deaths of civilians, prisoners of war and groups or individuals who served of all nationalities. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, little secondary migrated and some secondary abstracted. About 30,000 records, with about 17,000 computerised at present: projected 50-60,000. |
|
Media |
Much paper, photographs / slides and digital records; some printed text; little drawn / graphic material or printed maps. Digital is much text reports and database, little graphics / images and spatial data. |
|
Uses |
Conservation of discrete sites and monuments; community based conservation schemes, educational activities, tourism and leisure. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information is disseminated from a staffed record centre (IWM); the database is accessible only on an internal network. Developments under consideration include scanning images, internet access to the database and possible CDROM outputs. Access through system managers is routine for local and national history or archaeology groups, community groups and the media. It is occasional for local authority planning and environmental services, estate managers, national heritage organisations, local and national museums, libraries and record offices, all educational users, the National Trust, local amenity groups, tourism and commercial organisations. Access by arrangement only is limited physically by lack of space, and there may be some copyright issues. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
A bespoke thesaurus / word list is being evolved with RCHME and PMSA as a reference system and using enforced pick-lists for database entry. There are routine links with SMRs, the NMR, local and national research groups, and occasional links with the EH RSM, local and national museum records, local and national record offices, national library collections, universities, the Defence of Britain project and local councils. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
International Council for Archives |
|
Physical Address |
International Council for Archives, 60, rue des Francs-Bourgeois, 75003 PARIS, France, tel : 33 1 40 27 63 06, fax : 33 1 42 72 20 65 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
Standards Organisation ISAD(G): General International Standard Archival Description
ISAAR(CPF): International Standard Archival Authority Record for Corporate Bodies, Persons, and Families |
|
Brief Summary |
The Mission of ICA is the advancement of archives through international co-operation. It achieves this by: encouraging the development of archives in all countries, in order to ensure the preservation of the archival heritage of mankind promoting activities in the field of records and archives management on the international level developing relations between archivists of all countries and between all institutions which are concerned with the administration or preservation of records and archives or the professional training of archivists facilitating the use of archival documents by making their contents more widely known and encouraging greater ease of access. Archives, by providing evidence of human actions and transactions, underlie the rights of individuals and of states, and are fundamental to democracy and good governance.
Archives safeguard the memory of mankind by preserving records of its past. In pursuing the advancement of archives, ICA works for the protection and enhancement of the memory of the world.
The International Council on Archives brings together national archive administrations, professional associations of archivists, regional, local and other archives, and individual archivists. It is a non-governmental organisation, which means that it remains independent of the political process, and that its members are public and private archive institutions, and individuals. ICA works in close co-operation with inter-governmental organisations like UNESCO and the Council of Europe. It also maintains close links with other non-governmental organisations. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
ICA has more than 1,450 members in 170 countries and territories, making it a truly international organisation. |
|
period coverage |
Non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
International Council on Monuments & Sites (United Kingdom) |
|
|
ICOMOS (UK)
|
|
Physical Address |
10 Barley Mow Passage, London W4 4PH. |
|
|
0181 994 6477
|
|
Internet Address |
Email: icomos-uk@icomos.org Web site: www.icomos.org/uk/ |
|
Information System(s) |
ICOMOS Information on World Heritage Sites and International Conservation
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Philip Whitbourn |
|
Brief Summary |
The International Council on Monuments and Sites is an international non-governmental body of people concerned with conservation, with separate committees in 94 countries. It sets standards for conservation philosophy and techniques through its specialist and scientific committees. Since the Venice Charter of 1964, its formal statements have enshrined universal conservation principles. It is official adviser to UNESCO on World Heritage Sites. Since its formation in 1965, the UK Committee of ICOMOS has worked for higher standards in conservation. It also works for international education and has special responsibilities for World Heritage Sites in the UK under the terms of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention 1972. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK / Europe/ UNESCO member countries |
|
Period Coverage |
all |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
World Heritage sites; some related data for archaeological sites, historic buildings, parks and gardens, landscapes and maritime heritage within WHSs.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Some primary, secondary migrated and abstracted information.
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed and photographic records; digital text catalogue for publications. |
|
Uses |
To aid monitoring and management of cultural World Heritage Sites and to promote international standards and good practice in conservation of the cultural heritage. Main users are professional and organisational in conservation, in tertiary education and in tourism / leisure services. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Consultation of library (literature and papers relating to WHSs and conservation standards) by arrangement with ICOMOS UK office; limited information also available on Web site (list of World Heritage Sites in the UK /information on international conservation charters and guidelines). |
|
Intelligibility |
Designed principally for professional use. |
|
Interoperability |
None. Potential linkages exist with information systems for scheduled monuments, listed buildings and registered parks, gardens and landscapes. These statutory datasets include cross references to WH sites. DCMS will publish the 'New UK Tentative List of Future World Heritage Site Nominations' summer 1999- English Heritage co-ordinated compilation of UK list. Online introduction to GIS for Stonehenge/Avebury WHS and Avebury Management plan (see English Heritage Archaeology Division home page). |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust |
|
Physical Address |
Ironbridge, Telford, Shropshire TF8 7AW. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust and Ironbridge Institute collections and records management system |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr David de Haan, Deputy Director |
|
Brief Summary |
The Museum information system, which has cross-referenced links with that of the Ironbridge Institute, provides an essential tool for managing object and archive collections and their records; and for providing information to the Museum's visitors, researchers and interested members of the public. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Telford New Town area with focus on the World Heritage Site (technically, in terms of collections policy, East Shropshire coalfield)
|
|
Period Coverage |
All, but mainly post-medieval
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Principally archaeological and historical artefact and archive collections, with special reference to the WHS; some coverage of archaeological sites, historic buildings and landscapes
|
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary and secondary abstracted information, some migrated. 140- 150,000 items in main object catalogue and growth of c8000 items /annum Library held documentation (x referenced to object catalogue) includes 80,000 records with backlog of 30,000 items awaiting accessioning. Information flows (to system) routinely for list and schedule entries, and occasional exchanges with SMR, NMR, local research groups, universities, field units and specialist research bodies.
|
|
Media |
Paper manuscript, drawn/graphic material, printed texts and maps, photographic material, and much in digital media (text, databases and images) |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform conservation activities for archaeological sites, historic buildings, areas and landscapes, for strategic planning, regeneration projects, estate property management, and community based schemes. Used by full range of defined user groups (excepting nature and rural conservation organisations), organisational professional and personal users
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Public access to staffed library to consult records and to displayed museums collections; internal access only to object catalogue (held on internal network). External enquiries and access to stored collections/ archives are handled through a member of staff. Professional / research access is judged to be satisfactory; public / visitor access interface could be considerably developed, and theoretically unlimited, given appropriate resources. Some sensitive information and copyright issues but these could readily be protected by appropriate mechanisms. Ironbridge Museum's web site has begun to assemble images, information about museum visits and collections, trails to walk, places to see as a first stop, accessed via Cornucopia .
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional and research purposes, but the web site has user-friendly information and a children's site
|
|
Interoperability |
Museum object catalogue uses mda Modes, with SHIC and SHIC2 for classification of diverse social and industrial history information; library held records are accessioned using UDC for shelving and cross referenced to object catalogue. Vocabulary controls and data structure suited for interoperability.
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Lancaster University Archaeological Unit |
|
Physical Address |
Storey Institute, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster LA1 1TH. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
North West Wetlands Survey (NWWS) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Ms Rachel Newman |
|
Brief Summary |
The NWWS (1990-99) is an assessment of the archaeology and palaeo-environmental evidence of lowland wetlands in north west England, including a survey of current condition, in order to inform future environmental management and conservation action. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, Shropshire, Staffordshire
|
|
Period Coverage |
Principally prehistoric- early post medieval with some later
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
archaeological sites, historic buildings, biological heritage, archaeological artefact collections; palaeoenvironmental evidence
|
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, some secondary migrated and abstracted. Data transfer on project conclusion to county SMRs |
|
Media |
principally digital (text reports/catalogues, Oracle database, spatial data in ArcView, some graphics and palinological data); supported by paper, drawn, printed and photographic media |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Designed to inform the full range of conservation related activities managed by local authority archaeology services, particularly conservation of archaeological sites and landscapes and strategic planning for environmental management.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
During research and reporting phase of project, the dataset is accessible internally at LUAU by arrangement, all enquiries are handled through staff. Following completion of the reporting phase for each county, data is transferred to the relevant SMR for integration with local records and thereafter is available according to local arrangements. LUAU retain and currently maintain the central archive and regional database/GIS as a regional research tool and facility but without resources to support in medium or long term after the end of the project. Reports for each phase of the Survey are published in hard copy and annual reports issued on progress.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional and expert users.
|
|
Interoperability |
No bespoke thesaurus or terminology control; individual SMRs have migrated relevant data and integrated using the appropriate local classifications structure. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Luton Borough Council |
|
Physical Address |
Urban Regeneration and Tourism Group, Planning and Development Dept., Town Hall, Luton, LU1 2BQ, tel 01582 546000 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Luton Historic Environment Record |
|
Respondent(s) |
Stewart Cuff / Ismail Mohammed |
|
|
|
|
Brief Summary |
The Luton HER / SMR was detached from the Bedfordshire HER at local government reorganisation in April 1996. At that time it was about 2% of its parent system. It is used for planning purposes by the new Unitary Authority but its further development and enhancement is stalled by resource shortages. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Luton Borough Council area |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Most archaeological sites, historic buildings, Conservation Areas, Parks & Gardens |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, secondary migrated and secondary abstracted. About 500 records. |
|
Media |
Much paper, printed text and maps; some drawn / graphic material. Little digital text reports. |
|
|
|
|
Uses |
Is intended to inform all types of conservation-related activity. Is used routinely by the planning service, and occasionally by the countryside service, utilities, estates managers, local and national archaeology / heritage organisations, the local museum, local history group, local field Unit, all educational categories, local amenity and community groups, tourism / leisure, media and commercial organisations |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Disseminated through paper records held by the system itself. Is available for use by others, but suffers from all the physical limitations and users need interpretative assistance. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
No thesaurus in use. Has no exchange relationships with any other systems. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Luton Museum |
|
Physical Address |
Wardown Park, Luton. Tel. 01582 546723 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Accessions Register |
|
Respondent(s) |
Robin Holgate, Curator |
|
Brief Summary |
The Museum's accessions register up to the 1980s is on card index, and subsequently on the computerised AR system. Various technical enhancements including web-sites and linking with other systems to improve public access are being contemplated. A discretionary system but mandatory link with MGC registration. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Luton and South Bedfordshire up to around Ampthill. Some out-of-county hats, lace and straw work because collection is of national significance. |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological and historic artefact collections. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary information and some secondary abstracted. There are 2.5m items in the collections including 1.5m photographs. |
|
Media |
Much paper records, some digital, and little drawn, printed or photographic. Digital is much text reports and a database. There are plans to use a Windows-based package that will take images and 3-D. Later this will have a public interface to a multi-media web-site. An extranet is being developed including the museum, schools, libraries, hospital and University of Luton in Luton and Dunstable. |
|
Uses |
It is used to order museum collections, for educational activities, leisure and tourism. It is routinely used by the planning service, all types of local groups, and occasionally by national ones. It is routinely used by schools and colleges, local media and commercial organisations and individual researchers; occasionally by local library and record office and the local nature conservation organisation. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The system is available for use and helps with 3-4,000 collection-based enquiries each year. Access though is physically limited and needs to be by appointment; there is no dedicated study area. Information needs to be interpreted for non-experts. Copyright over photographs can affect access. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Dissemination is through paper records in a staffed office. A thesaurus is used, with objects based on BAT and sites on NMR. Routine data exchange exists to / from both the Bedfordshire and Luton SMRs, other local museums, record office and library; occasionally it is with a university on eg oral history project, field units, and the county biological heritage record. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
mda |
|
Physical Address |
Jupiter House, Station Road, Cambridge CB1 2JD, United Kingdom, tel +44 (0)1223 315760, fax +44 (0)1223 362521 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: mda@mda.org.uk |
|
Information System(s) |
virtual libraries and museums pages museums email directory standards development and thesauri: mda archaeological objects thesaurus developing thesauri - railway, land transport, fisheries, inland waterways publishing: journal - mda information SPECTRUM and SPECTRUM user guides newsletter web publishing of thesauri - ICOM vocabulary of costume terms, BM Object name thesaurus, Air transport thesaurus mda are also playing a lead role in the development of the 24 Hour Museum |
|
Brief Summary |
mda is dedicated to supporting the information management needs of museums, galleries and heritage organisations. The cultural heritage sector is facing quick-pace change, not least in terms of the challenge posed by the ever increasing impact of information and communication technologies. Mda actively ensures that museums and heritage bodies are equipped to harness ICT to realise their information assets; to fulfil their educational remit in terms of creating knowledge from information; and to demonstrate accountability for their collections. mda provides accountability for collections via standards and free advice on their implementation. SPECTRUM: The UK Museum Documentation Standard is grounded in the day-to-day reality of all museums, ranging from the smallest independent to the largest national. In addition to our own Outreach Team we run a network of national SPECTRUM Advisers who are based throughout the UK. We also provide a bridge between the cultural heritage and software sectors by providing regular Software Showcases of collections management software from a variety of vendors. Cultural heritage is the bedrock of learning in every discipline: natural history collections are used as a basis for cutting-edge scientific and environmental research; fine art collections as a stimulus for contemporary art; archaeological archives as input to urban planning decisions. The challenge is to unlock this cultural content in order to support all levels of access. mda ensures that the tried and tested results of its work is disseminated widely, together with advice and support in their implementation. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
mda has a national mandate but also has contacts and members worldwide. mda actively engage in leading-edge projects which demonstrate the viability of information and ICT standards, in all these projects mda works in partnership with museums and heritage bodies, both in the UK and abroad.. |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
museums documentation and information standards |
|
classes of information |
The majority of information held by the mda as part of their standards development work is primary There is both secondary migrated and abstracted data in the 24 Hour Museum |
|
media |
The majority of the information holdings of the mda are in paper manuscript, printed text or digital formats (text reports and catalogues, with some database and DTP files). The mda also holds some drawn and graphic material. |
|
Uses |
The mda is actively engaged in standards development and their application. Their products can be used in a variety of ways, most notably in the museums community, but also in:
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
Users may visit the mda offices, although the majority of the products of the mda's work are published either in hard and/or soft copy. The mda is developing its web presence to enable the downloading of thesauri from its website |
|
intelligibility: |
|
|
interoperability |
The mda has a great deal of relationships with other archaeological organisations through its collaborative approach to thesaurus construction. The thesauri it helps to produce will form the one of the basic building blocks of any fully interoperable system. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
MEDICI |
|
Physical Address |
MEDICI Secretariat Contact Point, Alfredo Ronchi, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 32, 20133 Milano - Italy, tel +39 2 2399 6040/6041, fax +39 2 2399 6020 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: medici@mail.polimi.it |
|
Information System |
Museums gateway links to other Museum web pages. Library Containing links to documents authored by project members, to suggested urls and to other documents, such as best practice guides and EC documents. Links to MEDICI action lines Inter-museum Thematic Multimedia Virtual Exhibitions. Multi Media Access to Cultural Heritage developments for Education. MMCH & Tourism Community: Multi Media Access in Cultural Heritage developments for Tourism. Best Practice Handbooks for Technical, Legal & Contractual Issues, Financing Mechanism for Multimedia Access Projects. Links to virtual exhibitions e.g. the Smithsonian's 'Revealing Things' exhibition, which was created especially for the internet. MEDICI also holds conferences and other events. |
|
Brief Summary |
MEDICI is a Framework of Co-operation established and supervised by the European Commission. It is open to all organisations and bodies, which share its goal, to promote the use of multimedia technology for access to and exploitation of the European cultural heritage. MEDICI facilitates the partnership between Museums and Industry for initiatives in the cultural domain. MEDICI implements a mechanism, based on the sharing of experiences and co-operation among its participants, which will provide information and specific services to facilitate their initiatives in the domain of multimedia access to the cultural heritage. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
Europe |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
The MEDICI framework is open to all participants in the domain: European museums, galleries and other cultural heritage holders, governmental, public and private organisations and industrial interests. |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
The MEDICI pages are open to members only, although there is on-line registration. |
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Mills Research Group |
|
Physical Address |
Penruan, 7 Cross Lane, Eccles-on-Sea, Norfolk, NR12 OTB, tel 01692 583242 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Windmills and watermills databases |
|
Respondent(s) |
A A (Tony) Bryan |
|
Brief Summary |
Two separate databases, one (windmills) published, maintained privately as a technical (rather than archaeological or historical) resource. Material is being systematically collected through contacts with SPAB Wind and Water Mill Section members and other enthusiasts, and from SMRs. Local groups send in their information and corrected / amended versions can sometimes be returned. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and its off-shore islands |
|
Period Coverage |
Medieval and post-medieval |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Windmills and watermills in two separate databases. |
|
Classes of Information |
Mostly secondary material migrated and abstracted but some primary records also |
|
Media |
Paper records, plans, some maps, photographs, digital database |
|
Uses |
Technical research resource |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
The databases are accessible to those who know of their existence. AB would like to put the databases or an index to them on the internet. |
| Intelligibility |
Essentially technical databases for specialists and enthusiasts |
| Interoperability |
Uses Microsoft Access; most other local groups use Microsoft Works. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Ministry of Defence, Defence Estates |
|
Physical Address |
Blandford House, Farnborough Road, Aldershot, Hants GU11 2HA, tel 01252 348987 |
|
|
Defence Estates HQ SPTA, Westdown Camp, Tilshead, Salisbury SP3 4RS, tel 01980 674711 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Defence Estate Conservation Sites and Monuments Records |
|
Respondent(s) |
Colonel (Retd) James H. Baker, MOD Conservation Officer |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Ministry of Defence maintains an environment information system for the management of its estate which includes extensive historic landscapes, and large number of monuments and sites of archaeological and historic interest, as well as many sites of interest for the biological heritage. Three databases are maintained: two SMRs for the archaeological (and biological) heritage are based in the Conservation Office in Blandford House (for UK except Salisbury Plain) and at Westdown Camp (for the Salisbury Plain Estate). The databases are currently maintained as separate systems.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
all |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic parks and gardens, world heritage site, landscape and settlement survey/analysis, maritime heritage, some artefact and historic artefact collections.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary migrated (from SMRS, national heritage and nature conservation agencies) and abstracted, also some primary commissioned survey data. Currently c7100 records but compilation from some county SMRs still incomplete and new data being added from commissioned surveys
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed text, printed maps, photographs, slides, digital records (database). Links to a GIS system being investigated for UK database. Westdown Camp office database already linked to a GIS. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
The information systems are maintained as a part of good environmental management practice in the Defence Estate which has extensive and dispersed land holdings (594,000 acres). Designed to inform decisions about development and change of use within the estate and strategic and land use planning. Principal use is internal by conservation groups advising on different areas within the Estate. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The system is designed as an internal management tool and external enquiries are handled through staff. The development of direct, or on line, access to the system for external users is not currently envisaged because of limitations of system and sensitivity of some data. |
|
Intelligibility |
Not suitable for public interrogation. |
|
Interoperability |
Low potential for interoperability but would be aided by electronic access to other heritage datasets across UK, and to commissioned survey data and archives relating to Estate.
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Ministry of Defence, Defence Estates |
|
Physical Address |
Defence Estate Organisation, Blakemore Drive, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B75 7RL |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Defence Estate Historic Buildings Record
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr Tony Whitehead |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Ministry of Defence maintains an environment information system for the management of its estate. Three databases are maintained at separate locations of which one is for the built heritage. The Defence Estates' database for listed and historic buildings of merit in the UK is based in Sutton Coldfield.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK
|
|
Period Coverage |
Medieval - modern
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings and structures with statutory protection or identified as 'buildings of merit' of special historic and architectural interest.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary migrated (from statutory lists). Records held for over 700 buildings
|
|
Media |
Paper, drawn/graphic, printed texts and maps, photographs/slides, digital records (text, database, and images for 90% records)
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Primary use is for the conservation management of historic buildings on the Defence Estate.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Internally accessed via Intranet so available to regional offices. Designed primarily for internal use as management tool and not available for public access. Some sensitive information held on system.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Suited to use by technically trained professionals.
|
|
Interoperability |
Not envisaged as a candidate for interoperability but would benefit from electronic access to other heritage datasets for updates and cross referral. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Monuments and Buildings Record (MBR) |
|
Physical Address |
Environment and Heritage Service, 5-33 Hill Street, Belfast BT1 2LA, tel: 01232 235000 / 028 90543004, fax: 01232 543111 / 028 90543111 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
The MBR is an umbrella term for the public front end of the Environment and Heritage Service. It is composed of nine separate information systems but also links into another roughly 120 fringe datasets concerning the natural heritage eg ASSI Core information systems SMR Architectural Industrial heritage Maritime ITZ (inter tidal zone) Photographic and drawing collection Parks, gardens and domains Artifacts palaeoecological |
|
Brief Summary |
The Environment and Heritage Service works to protect and conserve the natural and built environment and to promote its appreciation for the benefit of present and future generations. The MBR consists largely of data collected and used by the Environment & Heritage Service and is used in the everyday management of Northern Ireland's built heritage. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
Northern Ireland |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
The MBR covers all aspects of the buried, built, inter tidal and maritime heritage of Northern Ireland. |
|
classes of information |
SMR - paper and computerised database of 14,600 sites, 182 monuments in care, and 1500 scheduled historic monuments Architectural - digital 2500 records, with an additional 6500 non-digital listed buildings records and transparencies Industrial heritage - less than 10000 manual records on mills, railways, canals, docks, etc. Maritime - 3000 shipwrecks listed in a Word document ITZ (inter tidal zone) - Word document Photographic and drawing collection - Computerised index to 150000 slides and 50000 black and white prints Parks, gardens and domains - 600 paper records (included in the UK Parks and Gardens internet dbase) Artefacts - paper records only but a digital index is included in the SMR database |
|
Media |
digital - databases, spatial data, exhibitions and publication files paper records maps, drawings and photographs |
|
Uses |
The MBR can be used to inform: archaeological sites, historic buildings, designated historic areas all forms of strategic policies and planning all forms of management activities all forms of community and social involvement |
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
The MBR provides free access to data and collections via its search room and will reply to written or phone requests. It also has a publication program. |
|
interoperability |
The MBR web site is under development. The SMR will be fully searchable. The SMR have also supplied site level metadata to the ADS for inclusion in ArchSearch. The MBR use data standards as part of their work. They are used to provide vocabulary control and were modified version from the TMT and the Irish monument type thesaurus. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Museum of London |
|
Physical Address |
Museum of London, London Wall, London EC2Y 5HN |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Multi-MIMSY - Oracle based collections management system MoL Archaeological Archive Museum collections |
|
Respondent(s) |
Andrew Roberts, Museum of London Documentation Officer |
|
Brief Summary |
Museum of London is the museum for London and for information sources concerned with describing the archaeology and history of London and London's context within the UK and as a world city |
|
Content |
|
| Geographical Coverage |
Greater London |
| Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
| Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All archaeological sites excavated in London Artefacts excavated from sites and in MoL collections |
| Classes of Information |
Primary - collections held by MoL Secondary migrated - archaeological archives deposited by excavation units Secondary abstracted - bibliography of Greater London Archaeology. Library of journal and other articles dealing with London archaeology. |
| Media |
Paper manuscript or typescript Drawn / graphic material Printed maps Photographs / slides Microfilm Digital records - text based reports / catalogues / databases / graphic and images. NB. Archaeological archive was closed until 1998 and is now beginning to receive site deposits from excavations that took place between 1991 and 1998. 12.0pt; |
|
Uses |
Provides information on archaeological sites excavated in London and on the artefact collections recovered from them usually to: Local and National archaeology or heritage organisations Local and National museums Local history or archaeology group HE MoL main archaeological archive for 19 contracting organisations. |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Archive has limited staff resources - only just re-opened. System also contains confidential and commercially valuable information - used by contracting organisations who want to keep their sensitive information away from their competitors who also use the MoL. Have a policy of confidentiality
|
| Intelligibility |
Multi-MIMSY designed for staff use rather than public access; public interfaces to be developed over next three years Data requires development |
| Interoperability |
Use standards - AAT, mda archaeological objects T, collections management based on SPECTRUM High potential for some degree of interoperability in the future |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Museum and Galleries Commission |
|
|
|
|
Physical Address |
Museums and Galleries Commission, 16 Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AA, tel 0171 2334200, fax 0171 2333686 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
|
|
Brief Summary |
The Museums & Galleries Commission (MGC) is the national advisory body which exists to safeguard and promote Britain's 2,500 museums and galleries. The MGC has three central roles -
The Commission has recently appointed a post to advise on information and communication technology in the museums sector, and undertake a variety of projects including Cornucopia, which will provide a central database for MGC registered museum collections held in the UK. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
Museums and Galleries |
|
Uses |
The Museums and Galleries Commission aims to encourage as many people as possible to visit and enjoy the nation's museums and galleries. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Museums and Galleries Commission |
|
Physical Address |
16 Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AA, tel 0171 2334200, fax 0171 2333686 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
Cornucopia |
|
Brief Summary |
Cornucopia : Discovering UK Collections is a new project from the Museums and Galleries Commission. It will give a complete picture of the wealth of UK museum collections through a comprehensive database. The pilot website provides information on the 50 museums in England with Designated collections. Designation celebrates pre-eminent museum collections outside the National museums and now covers a wide-ranging group of outstanding collections in museums throughout England. The importance of Designated collections has been recognised by Government with a £15m Challenge Fund over the next three years. Cornucopia will give all the information needed to contact a museum or make a visit, as well as providing a link to the museum's own website. This will also give users information on which collections are likely to be on display or in store. Cornucopia will also say how to arrange to see objects in store. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
The full Cornucopia is going on-line in 2000 and will cover the collections of all 1,700 MGC Registered museums in the UK. |
|
period coverage |
|
|
thematic / subject coverage |
Users will be able to explore many types and sizes of museums relevant to their research and interests. |
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
Z39.50 |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies (NADFAS) |
|
Physical Address |
NADFAS House, 8 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DT, tel 0171 430 0730 (Chairman) Moore House Barn, Frensham Lane, Wishanger, Nr Churt, Surrey, GU10 2QH Tel 01428 712520 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Records of church contents and fittings |
|
Respondent(s) |
Susan Filer, Chairman Church Recorders |
|
Brief Summary |
The voluntary Church Recorders of NADFAS have been working for over 25 years, recording the contents and fittings of parish churches. About 830 have been covered, and a target of 1,000 is set for the millennium. About 500 of these done since 1990 are probably well recorded. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
|
|
Period Coverage |
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
|
|
Classes of Information |
|
|
Media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
|
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
No records are held centrally. Five copies are made and distributed to the parish, the CCC, NMR, the V & A Library, and the County Record Office if no equivalent Diocesan Record exists. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Preliminary studies are being undertaken in Sussex and Oxfordshire (on windows and textiles) for a database of index information, but there is a lack of resources to buy hardware, software and inputting capability. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
National Grid for Learning (NGfL) |
|
Physical Address |
|
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
The NGfL provides an information gateway to a host of web resources. From its home page the Grid has links to -
|
|
Brief Summary |
The NGfL is under development by the British Educational Communications and Technology Agency (BECTa) and will develop steadily over the years. Its structure can accommodate the needs of learners in all sectors of education, both formal and informal. In the end, it will not matter whether you are seven or seventy, a learner or someone helping others to learn - the Grid will be there for you. The Grid is a comprehensive programme that includes extra funding for expenditure on hardware, software and networks, as well as for training in the use of information and communications technology in the educational context. The greatest strength of the NGfL will be its users; to help promote direct involvement you will see that the growth of discussion groups is being encouraged. They will vary in size and focus from site to site, but they will all have education as their overarching concern. Examples can be found on the Standards Site and in the national VTC site. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK |
|
period coverage |
non period specific |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
National Museums and Galleries of Wales |
|
Physical Address |
Department of Archaeology and Numismatics, National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF1 3NP, tel 01222 573388 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Collections Management System (CMS) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Steve Burrow, |
|
Brief Summary |
CMS is a mandatory requirement of the Welsh Office. Information on artefacts held in national, but not in regional and local museums. Archaeology entries are reinforced by hand-written accession entries and associated site archives. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period-specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Accession details for the entire museum's collections covering biological heritage, portable antiquities (scheme), historic artefacts collections; also art and geology. |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary |
|
Media |
Much of all media except microform; digital data type is database We are currently reviewing the value of GIS as an analytical tool. CMS also has the ability to import scanned images - although we have yet to make extensive use of this. |
|
Uses |
CMS informs museum collections and educational activities. External organisations using CMS include local museums and universities |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information disseminated through paper records at a staffed records centre where there is a single computer. Intended to make CMS available to the public (with appropriate safe-guards on sensitive information), as a separate stage in a long term plan including enhancing data on system to achieve a uniform level of detail. CMS available for use by others but lacks user-friendly access interface with information output not easily interpretable by an outsider. |
|
Interoperability |
Thesaurus based on MDA archaeological object names, adapted; embedded within CMS. CMS occasionally exchanges with specialist research organisations. Its database is to be made accessible to the RCHMW ENDEX scheme pending final signing of a data exchange agreement. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
National Register of Archives |
|
Physical Address |
Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts, Quality House, Quality Court, Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1HP, tel 0171 2421198, fax 0171 8313550 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System |
Archives online |
|
Brief Summary |
The National Register of Archives (NRA) was set up by the Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts in 1945 to collect and disseminate information about manuscript sources for British history outside the public records. The NRA aims to make this information available for public use as rapidly as possible. Its coverage is wide and includes information on the papers of individuals of note, and the records of landed families and estates, businesses, local authorities, societies and other organisations. The NRA consists of more than 43,000 unpublished lists and catalogues of major manuscript collections, and approximately 150,000 further lists of miscellaneous and minor collections. They describe the holdings of local record offices, national and university libraries, specialist repositories, museums and other bodies in the United Kingdom and aboard. They also cover papers held privately by individuals, firms and institutions, and in such cases the Commission is often able to provide further information about the accessibility of the papers for research. The lists vary in length and detail, and are only available in the Commission's public search room. The indexes, however, are available on the Web. Web users may conduct searches by entering the name or description of an individual or corporate body on the relevant form. Please note that for the time being landed families and estates are classified as corporate bodies. Users wishing to locate the records of corporate bodies may search for a company or organisation by name or word, e.g. Eldridge (as in Eldridge Pope), as well as description, e.g. brewers. Exact search criteria are necessary; parts of words will not work. It is also possible to search by place name. It is important to note that this does not retrieve all the records relating to a place but only the archives of businesses and organisations based there, as well as diaries of residents and visitors who have commented on it in detail. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
The NRA's range of sources in the United Kingdom and abroad is continually expanding, |
|
period coverage |
|
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The National Trust |
|
Physical Address |
36 Queen Anne's Gate, London, SW1H 9AS. Tel 0171 222 9251 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Inventory and Collections Management System |
|
Respondent(s) |
Philip Claris |
|
Brief Summary |
This system, which is in course of development, is due to be launched in late 2000. Its purpose is to answer the problem of past inconsistent inventorising throughout the National Trust, now leading toward inconsistent computerisation. In due course, the system will be available on-line centrally, at Regional Offices and at individual properties. There will also be a user-friendly public front end for public access consultation in formats and at places yet to be determined. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England, Wales and Northern Ireland |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic artefact collections associated with properties; selected museum collections e.g. at Avebury. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary information, some secondary migrated and abstracted. Initially 4-500,000, later c2m object records |
|
Media |
All media except microform. Digital as text reports, databases and graphic images. |
|
Uses |
Intended to inform the conservation of historic buildings in use through their contents and museum collections, and support educational activities. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Access will be limited until the system and its distribution has been fully developed, but there will be policy restraints over confidential, commercial and copyright issues. |
|
Interoperability |
Directly related to MDA SPECTRUM standard; uses Art and Architecture Thesaurus (AAT) from Getty. Data exchange is expected to involve local and national museums, record offices, libraries, research groups and universities |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
National Trust |
|
Physical Address |
33 Sheep Street, Cirencester, Glos., GL7 1RQ, tel 01285 651818, fax 657935 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Sites and Monuments Record |
|
Respondent(s) |
Nigel Pratt |
|
Brief Summary |
Accepted in policy papers as essential curatorial databank maintained as part of NT's commitment to the conservation and management of the hist. env. in its care. Archaeological property surveys, based on new surveys and existing records, are definitive. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Properties in England, Wales, NI |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All discrete identifiable or defined designated items plus maritime, biological and archaeological artefact collections. Mainly specially commissioned surveys plus Phyllis Ireland OS cards, some gaps |
|
Classes of Information |
Holds much primary and some secondary migrated / abstracted information |
|
Media |
All media including some microfiche; digital text reports / catalogues and databases only. Moving to Exegesis v1.5 from no-longer-supported custom-based system. Data model of Activities-M-Archive; management information subsumed with Monuments but consultations data still kept separate. Computerised version in Cirencester (where archive also kept), copies in Regions Direct grant from DCMS for inputting backlog: 3-year project |
|
Uses |
Used for conservation of discrete elements (archae sites, hist bldgs, desig areas) and overall management activities (c'side manag, estate / property manag). Proper use of regional copies dependent upon having Regional Archaeologist. |
|
|
Intended to inform all education, research, presentation / interpretation Actually used routinely by estate / property managers of NT, occasionally by natln archae / herit orgn, archae field practice, FE coll, univ. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available for use by other organisations; freely accessible to bona fide researchers etc |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Information disseminated on application to SMRO; non-internet; searchable database Thesauri: RCHME Monument Types, Building Matls; MDA Objects Exchange with other systems: routinely to/from SMRs, NMR, RSM, HBLists (from), estate / property inventories; occasionally both with univ research and field recording orgn, from LRO, NRO, local library, bio heritage records, to DefBrit, specialist research; never with local & nat. research groups, landscape character assessment, PortAntiqs Has sought to exchange data with external system holders and needs to expand from purely archae to wider community. Enhanced info from NT archae surveys routinely fed to SMRs / NMR as paper reports, but fear that SMR backlogs prevent accession and accessibility. Shared approach amongst Exegesis users might allow digital exchange with inputting only once to NTSMR |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The National Trust for Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
The Archaeologist, The Old Granary, West Mill Street, Perth, PH1 5QP, tel 01738 636711; fax 643143 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Scottish National Trust SMR |
|
Respondent(s) |
Robin Turner |
|
Brief Summary |
The SNTSMR began in the early 1990s with data from the National Monuments Record of Scotland, and has been developed with subsequent survey work, both programmes and ad hoc. It stores basic information about physical and historical characteristics, condition, potential for interpretation, significance and threats, as well as management information and monitoring reports. It is the basis for a new linked but separate events-based database underpinning the preparation of Management Plans for each property. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland - all National Trust properties; intensive coverage of St Kilda. |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites and buildings. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary and secondary migrated material and some secondary abstracted. |
|
Media |
Text, catalogues, photographs, maps. Digital index database. |
|
Uses |
Principally for management purposes, but also potentially for interpretation and ultimately the basis for Management Plans based on Statements of Significance. |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Digital database is accessible on an NT intranet. |
| Intelligibility |
|
| Interoperability |
The basic SNTSMR is essentially stand-alone and links only within the SNT. But the new database would be potentially compatible with SMRs using exeGesIS. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
A Netful of Jewels: New Museums in the Learning Age |
|
Physical Address |
National Museum Directors' Conference |
|
|
C/o Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL, Tel: 0171 938 9902/4, Fax: 0171 938 9903
|
|
Internet Address |
N/A |
|
Information System(s) |
N/A |
|
Respondent(s) |
Report from the National Museum Directors' Conference 1999, ISBN 0 9536047 0 5 Information about DCMS IT Challenge Fund derived from e-mail announcement from David Dawson, MGC. |
|
Brief Summary |
This report outlines the development of digital access to Museums. The initiative is being taken forward in a number of ways, including SCRAN (qv) and The 24 Hour Museum (http://www.24hourmuseum.org.uk). The DCMS has recently launched an "IT Challenge Fund", administered by the Museums & Galleries Commission. |
|
|
DCMS has committed £500,000 to the IT Challenge Fund in the period 1999-2001. The Fund will enable museums to work together in developing projects that will show how Information Communication Technology (ICT) can contribute to access, education and innovation in museums. The Fund will allow museums to participate in the vision outlined in "A Netful of Jewels". The aims of the fund are defined as: To promote excellence Projects will make a significant difference to the ways in which museums communicate with their public and deliver their services. Both the process and the product will be evaluated so that good practice can be identified and promoted. To raise standards through ICT Projects will demonstrate how museums can use ICT to raise standards in areas such as: * access to museums and their collections To facilitate partnerships * Each project must have at least three museum partners. Partnerships will enable the sharing of expertise and knowledge about collections between museums, and with other organisations such as colleges, universities, community groups or specialist societies. To encourage investment. * Projects must have a minimum financial contribution of 12.5% in partnership funding, and a minimum of 12.5% of partnership funding in kind. A minimum total for partnership funding is 25%, but some projects will be able to achieve 50% of the total cost of the project. The key themes for the Fund Applications may be made for funding of projects that demonstrate innovation and partnership under four main themes. Theme 1 Support for life-long learning Museums will look at ways to apply successful existing museum education techniques and materials to the new media. Projects might involve re-engineering of resources for the learning networks, or developing new approaches to museum education which are designed specifically for new media. Theme 2 Support for collaborative working Projects will be supported which develop collaborative working between museums in a geographic region, or between those working with a similar range of users, or those with strong links through the nature of their collections. The active use of e-mail, video-conferencing and other electronic links will be encouraged. The issues that projects will address include raising awareness of the potential uses of ICT, understanding what users want from museums, and evaluating whether projects meet those needs. Theme 3 Development of interactive and participatory services Museums and their communities will look at new forms of participation using ICT. This might involve developing electronic resources to attract new audiences. Projects could also develop contextual information for collections, provide new approaches to the delivery of collections information in study areas or galleries, and evaluate its effectiveness before disseminating it through the Internet. Theme 4 Creation of innovative applications for new technologies Museums are increasingly discovering applications for new technologies. This theme will help museums to apply new technology in areas such as marketing, visitor services or managing the museum environment." |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Northumberland County Council |
|
Physical Address |
Conservation Team, Environment Department, County Hall, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 2EF, tel 01670 534060 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Northumberland CC Environment Dept, Environment Information System (including SMR) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Sara Rushton (01670 534058) |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
Northumberland County Council maintains environmental databases to meet the strategic priorities of its Environment Division business plan for 'sustainability', 'active conservation' and 'awareness, understanding and enjoyment'. Its register of archaeological and historical sites, structures and findspots (SMR) is designed to ensure that archaeological information is integrated into the planning process to secure the conservation and preservation of the archaeological heritage. The Environment Dept. is in the process of developing an integrated environmental information system linking the SMR and new nature conservation databases with its GIS to facilitate the layering of historic environment information with other environmental datasets.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Local authority area (Northumberland)
|
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological sites, historic buildings, registered historic parks, gardens, battlefields, world heritage sites, extensive urban survey; also finds spots, events data, SSSIs, Heritage Coast, AONBs, SACs, some ancient woodland and field boundaries. Planned development of nature conservation database in 2000.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Principally primary and secondary abstracted; some secondary migrated from NMR. c11,000 records currently in system (SMR only)
|
|
Media |
Principally printed maps and digital data, some drawn/graphic material, printed text, photographs /slides, little paper. Digital data includes databases and some spatial data for Extensive Urban Surveys. Currently working towards use of images linked to GIS and for stand alone public education on line / CD information service, using enhanced SMR data. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
System designed to inform conservation-related activities for archaeological sites and monuments, historic buildings, designated historic areas, historic urban areas (and in future wildlife and habitat conservation); strategic policies and planning; overall management activities; community, educational and tourism and leisure activities. Routine information exchanges to and from UAD, NMR, RSM, field units / consultancies, Portable Antiquities (when project officer in post), Defence of Britain project; also flows from LBS and to MoD conservation database. Routine users are local authorities, utilities, national heritage organisations, archaeological units/consultancies, universities and agricultural agencies. Occasional users are estate / property managers, local heritage organisations, museums, and archaeology groups, schools, amenity and community groups, tourism, leisure and media bodies.
|
|
|
|
|
Accessibility |
Direct access to full system is available for internal use only, on a single computer (planned future read-only access for National Park archaeologist). External enquiries, supplied in hard copy only, are managed by staff (written queries and visits to consult records). Paper duplicate records area provided to district authorities for reference purposes. Digital publication being planned for enhanced SMR data via public access points, e.g. in public libraries. Physical access to consult records is by arrangement and limited by space and staff resources but postal service always available. Some IPR issues affect access.
|
|
Intelligibility |
System has no user friendly interface (enhanced version for public information in planning stage, see above); output not easily interpreted by non-expert and may require editing or update.
|
|
Interoperability |
Controlled vocabulary using RCHME thesaurus. Good potential for interoperability, either brokered or linked, using metadata. Electronic publication of enhanced SMR data as public information service locally also suited as a served resource or publication on Internet. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Nottinghamshire County Council |
|
Physical Address |
Environment Department, Trent Bridge House, Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG9 1LQ. Tel 0115 977 2162. Fax 0115 977 2418. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Sites and Monuments Record |
|
Respondent(s) |
Virginia Baddeley |
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary but required by central government advice and planning requirements |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Nottinghamshire |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
All: discrete definable or defined designated items except WHS n/a. All historic landscape character analysis, some village / town as entity and archae deposit models, some archaeological artefact collections. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, some secondary migrated, much secondary abstracted |
|
Media |
All media except microfilm; all digital classes except geophysical data |
|
Uses |
Infosys designed for conservation of all discrete elements except museum collections and habitats, all strategic policies and planning except green audit. "Is not `designed for' Overall Management Activities and Community Involvement but should still be useful". All education, tourism and leisure / community functions. |
|
|
Infosys used routinely by LPA, utilities, nat arch / heritage orgn, archae field unit, university, popular media; occasionally by virtually everyone else except national library and nat / local record offices, nat nature cons organisation and Nat Trust. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
System available to others, only limited if request too large, too sensitive or confidential |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Dissemination by paper records through contact with SMR, in post or in person; through a non-internet computer database accessible where system is located currently on separate computers but shortly on network. [J - uncertain] In-house thesaurus, based on RCHME. Occasionally to/from NMR, routinely from RSM, lists of stat lbs, occasionally from local museum records. Occasionally to/from local and national research groups, universities, estate / property managers, field recording organisations, DefBrit, specialist research orgns, NMP. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Pavilions of Splendour |
|
Physical Address |
Tel 0181 348 1234 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Central Register of Listed Buildings for Sale |
|
Respondent(s) |
Gwyn Headley |
|
Brief Summary |
The Central Register of Listed Buildings For Sale is published as a searchable database on the internet of listed buildings publicly offered for sale in the past 12 months. It is provided as a free public service by Pavilions of Splendour Ltd. The data is compiled by unpaid volunteers, and makes no pretence to be comprehensive. It contains an average of 1000-1200 buildings, searchable by county or by price and updated every week. It can be viewed at http://www.heritage.co.uk. Our major concern is the general and public inaccessibility of the data on listed buildings in the UK, and we are actively taking steps to campaign for the improvement of this invaluable facility by offering to publish this database at our own expense Discretionary marketing tool for PavSplen, an estate agent specialising in the sale of LBs |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
LBs publicly offered for sale within the last 12 months: info far from comprehensive. Historic buildings; Conservation Areas |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary abstracted. 1,050 - 1,200 records: year-old data automatically deleted |
|
Media |
Digital records - databases |
|
Uses |
Conservation of historic buildings in use; estate / property management |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
> Info accessible to others without limitation. Direct access routinely by local authority services, development corps, estate / property managers, local & national archae / heritage orgn, national history or archae group, univs, local libraries, Nat Trust, local & national amenity groups, community group, commercial organisations, general free public access. Occasional access by national museum, local history group, archae field practice, national library |
|
Interoperability |
Disseminated through publicly searchable meta-data computer database on a web site and capable of remote access. Info routinely from lists of listed hbs |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Portable Antiquities Recording Scheme |
|
Physical Address |
DCMS, 204 Cockspur Street, London SW1Y 5DH, Tel: 0171 2112011, Fax: 0171 2112006 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Portable Antiquities Scheme |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr Roger Bland Project Co-ordinator |
|
Brief Summary |
Every year in England and Wales, hundreds of thousands of objects are discovered, mostly by people using metal detectors but also by people out walking or digging in their gardens or while going about their work. Yet only a small proportion of these finds are ever seen by museums or archaeologists. This means that a great deal of potentially important information about our past is being lost.
The 1997 Treasure Act represents the first ever reform of the medieval law of treasure throve. The Act substantially increased the number of finds that receive legal protection, although it is clear that only a very small proportion of all finds will come under its scope. The DCMS and British Museum have funded via the MGC six pilot schemes which started in autumn 1997 in Kent, Norfolk, the North West, North Lincolnshire, the West Midlands and Yorkshire. In spring 1999, these were joined by a further five pilot schemes in Dorset and Somerset, Hampshire, Northamptonshire, Suffolk and Wales, together with an MGC Outreach Officer post based at the British Museum; they now cover about hals of England and Wales.
The aims of the pilot schemes are - To advance the knowledge of the history and archaeology of England and Wales. To initiate a system for recording archaeological finds and to encourage and promote better recording practices by finders. To strengthen the links between the detector users and archaeologists. To estimate how many objects are being found across England and Wales and what resources would be needed to record them. The aim is to move to a national scheme from the end of 2000, provided funding can be found. A lottery bid is being prepared by a consortium led by the MGC and also including EH, BM, National Museums and Galleries of Wales and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales with support from ALGAO, CBA and Society of Museum Archaeologists. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Post 1800 finds only recorded if of special interest Before 1650 all finds recorded 1650-1800 all finds recorded if possible |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological artefact collections - especially metal detector material. Also historic artefact collections. |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary information - finds brought in by members of the public to be identified. |
| Media |
Photographs, drawings and digital records. Finds are logged into the PA database when they are brought into the Finds Liaison Officer. If deemed worthy of special attention the finds are drawn and/ or photographed. The FLO regularly provides the PA co-ordinator with updates of their local database for inclusion in the National PA database. |
|
Uses |
Local authority planning / development service Local archaeology or heritage organisation National Archaeology or Heritage Organisation Local and National Museum Local and National history and archaeology group Archaeological field practice or consultancy Education - Primary, Secondary, FE and HE Community, Local and National amenity groups Tourism Popular media |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The national database is available over the Internet Not all dbase fields are publicly available - sensitive information |
|
Intelligibility |
Internet system intelligible but suffers as finds are not given precise grid references, majority referred to by parish, some only by county |
|
Interoperability |
The PA database is a Z39.50 target. Can be searched using Aquarelle Will be a target for the ADS Z39.50 gateway |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Public Monuments and Sculpture Association (PMSA) |
|
Physical Address |
77 Lissenden Mansions, Lissenden Gardens, London NW5 1PR, Tel 0171 485 0566, fax 0171 267 1742 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
PMSA National Recording Project (NRP) |
|
Respondent(s) |
Jo Darke, Chief Executive PMSA |
|
Brief Summary |
The PMSA was set up in 1991 for the protection and promotion of public monuments and sculpture in the urban or rural landscape, from C13 Eleanor Crosses to contemporary public art installations. The PMSA NRP has been set up to establish a national database and central information source about the location and condition of the national collection, by surveying and recording all the public sculpture and monuments in the British Isles. This information is for scholars, conservators, custodians and all others with a concern for defining and understanding public monuments and sculpture. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Europe and UK (some parts "eventually" - NI, RepI, CI, IoM) |
|
Period Coverage |
C13 to present day |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Discrete identifiable elements in or on historic buildings, Conservation Areas, defined parks & gardens, battlefields, world heritage sites. Monuments to maritime and biological heritage. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary information, also much secondary migrated and abstracted. About 10,000 records. |
|
Media |
Much paper, photographic and digital; some printed text. Digital includes databases. |
|
Uses |
The NRP is intended to inform the conservation of discrete monuments, historic buildings and areas; strategic planning and economic regeneration; community based conservation schemes, education and tourism / leisure. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The project is establishing Regional Archive Centres (RACs) nationwide to carry out regional and city surveys and to create an accessible digital archive of core data. Information is collected on paper and then transferred to the computer database. Ultimately, national and regional databases will be remotely searchable through a web-site. Though the database is not yet searchable by other organisations it is intended to be promoted as available for virtually all those concerned with the conservation and understanding of the historic environment. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
A thesaurus is used in the printed and published volumes; it is bespoke but based on the RCHME thesaurus. Terms are embedded in the database. There is occasional data-exchange with most other kinds of information system |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Regeneration Through Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
Project Director, Business in the Community, 44 Baker Street, London W1M 1DH, Tel: 0171 224 1600, Fax: 0171 486 1700 |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: ftaggart@bitc.org.uk |
|
|
|
|
Information System |
Clickable regional map of UK projects Searchable text index of UK projects by geographical region Searchable text index of UK projects by county/municipal region Searchable text index of related European and World projects |
|
Brief Summary |
There are thousands of mills, canal-side warehouses, factories and other former industrial buildings throughout the United Kingdom, which represent an important legacy of architectural and historic interest. Many are currently redundant or under used, but offer enormous potential for conversion and re-use, particularly for contemporary economic uses.
With the Government given priority to urban regeneration and sustainable development, this is an ideal time for local community groups and partnerships to tackle the task of re-using heritage industrial buildings. RTH strongly reflects these policies and actively encourages communities in disadvantaged areas to re-use heritage industrial buildings to:
|
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
World wide, but mainly UK |
|
period coverage |
industrial period |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
industrial heritage buildings |
|
media |
digital |
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Initiative |
Research Support Libraries Programme |
|
Physical Address |
Edinburgh University Library, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9LJ |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
N/A |
|
Respondent(s) |
N/A |
|
Brief Summary |
The Higher Education Funding Council for England, the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales, the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council and the Department of Education for Northern Ireland are funding this UK-wide initiative. Funding to higher education institutions will start in academic year 1999-2000 and, subject to commitment of funds by the HE funding bodies in respect of the final year, is expected to run through to 2001-2002, with up to £30M being disbursed over the three years.
The Research Support Libraries Programme derives from the deliberations of the Follett Review (1993) and the associated Anderson Report (1996). It brings together both traditional and new forms of access to library information, with specific reference to support for research. The principal beneficiaries of the Programme will be researchers employed in UK HEIs and their postgraduate research students, though there will be significant benefits for other groups. The Programme is intended to meet, in a library context, the need for collaboration and sharing in the use of the research infrastructure envisaged more generally by the Dearing and Garrick reports.
The overarching vision is to facilitate the best possible arrangements for research support in UK libraries, by taking proactive steps to: Sustain and enhance personal access to research resources Extend collaborative arrangements for collection management Increase availability of information about the location of the UK's rich information resources Improve ability to navigate around important collections Provide new technological and organisational arrangements to support the strategy
Three of the projects so far announced are of relevance to HEIRNET:
(1) ARCHway: gateway to resource sharing in archaeology (University of York)
The project brings together 18 university libraries with archaeology collections as partners in a project which will investigate the feasibility of a national collection management policy for archaeology journals and related materials. The associate organisations are providing specific services to the project and the associate university libraries wish to be informed of developments and may join in the project at a later stage.
The project aims to evaluate whether it is possible to enhance access to archaeology research materials by attempting to develop: A national distributed collection of archaeology journals and related materials and a union list; A national collection management policy for archaeology journals and related materials; Co-operative library access arrangements; Consortium access to full text electronic journals; Tables of content, SDI and document delivery services with effective coverage of archaeology.
(2) OASIS: Online Access to the Index of archaeological investigations (ADS/English Heritage)
This proposal brings together three strategic partners: the Archaeology Data Service, the Archaeology Commissions Section of English Heritage, and the National Monuments Record (recently amalgamated with English Heritage), under the umbrella of the University of York, with the aim of creating a single index to the grey literature of archaeological assessment reports and excavation archives in England. The proposed project aims to complete the concordance between the Excavation Index and AIP record for the post-PPG16 era from 1990, in order the produce the most complete unified record of archaeological interventions for this period and make this available via the ADS Catalogue. At the same time, an on-line recording form will be developed to further speed the flow of data to users.
(3) A digital Internet catalogue for the University of Cambridge Air Photograph Library (University of Cambridge)
This project will create a digital catalogue within a geographical information systems framework for management of the 410,000 photographs in the air photo library of the Cambridge Committee for Aerial Photography. Remote Users in academic institutions throughout the UK will have access to the facility via the internet. As a consequence, the value of the information held within this major historic resource will be increased substantially and made more readily available to a much wider, international community.
|
|
|
|
|
Initiative |
Resource Discovery Network Centre |
|
Physical Address |
The Library, King's College London, the Strand, London |
|
Internet Address |
Not yet available |
|
Information System(s) |
N/A |
|
Respondent(s) |
N/A |
|
Brief Summary |
JISC Circular 10/98 called for full proposals to set up a Resource Discovery Network Centre, and for expressions of interest to provide subject gateway services within the Resource Discovery Network. The RDN is the framework within which JISC funded subject gateway activity is taken forward. The RDNC came into being on the 12 January 1999, when a grant was awarded to a consortium of King's College London (AHDS) and to the University of Bath (UKOLN), with support from the University of Hull. The RDNC prepared an outline strategy which proposed that the RDN be developed as a network organisation comprising a centre, a set of faculty-level hubs, and gateway services provided by the hubs or their partners. This strategy was approved by the JISC/CEI Subject Gateway Working Group set up to oversee the emergence of the RDN. Hubs provide a focus for service and outreach development within their areas, and work with the RDNC to further develop the RDN. Hubs have been proposed in the following proposed areas: Social science, business and law; Biomedical sciences; Engineering, computing and maths; Physical sciences; Cultural arts and industries; Humanities. Each hub will seek to provide an indexed catalogue of internet resources within their subject area(s). The Humanities Hub has been awarded to the HUMBUL Gateway, maintained by The CTI Centre for Textual Studies at the University of Oxford. Metadata index records for UK Archaeology Internet resources will be supplied by a consortium of the ADS, CBA and CTICH. The catalogue records will also be available from the ADS Catalogue ArchSearch (qv).
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland |
|
Physical Address |
John Sinclair House, 16 Bernard Terrace, Edinburgh EH8 9NX. Tel 0131 662 1456. Fax 0131 662 1499 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
National Monuments Record of Scotland |
|
Respondent(s) |
Diana Murray |
|
Brief Summary |
The role of RCAHMS, derived from the royal warrant of 1908, is to compile, maintain and curate the National Monuments Record of Scotland as a basic national record of the archaeological and historic environment. NMRS holds the inventory of `sites' in Scotland. Historically and strategically, this is a `top-down' inventory, containing selectively identified sites and landscapes. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Most - archaeological sites, historic buildings; Cons Areas, parks / gardens, battlefields, WHS (manual); maritime, archaeological artefact and historic artefact collections. Some - historic landscape character analysis (HLA), historic settlement patterns (FESP) |
|
Classes of Information |
Primary, secondary migrated and abstracted |
|
Media |
Much of all types of media; much of all digital data classes except geophysical survey. The NMRS has a primary archival role for OS records, the results of RCAHMS surveys, maps, aerial photographs, architects' drawings and papers, excavation archives, survey reports, manuscripts and other records. |
|
Uses |
The information system is designed to provide the basic national record of the archaeological and historical environment in Scotland. It is designed to reference source material including the NMRS own extensive collections of photographs, drawings and documents. It has a responsibility to make this information available to those who need to use it for purposes such as conservation or education. Info exchange: routinely, to / from SMRs, on-line HS SAM register, LB register, part of Defence of Britain; occasionally to / from virtually everyone else. All organisational types routinely use NMRS. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information system is available: there are limitations over non-expert interpretation (but see ASP HLF bid), limited on-line searches, and some copyright issues. There is information dissemination from the system itself through staff in the library, self-service library, copies by post and downloads. From elsewhere through copies of NMRS data on SMRs and NMRS images on SCRAN. Through non-internet computer on an internal network; through a publicly searchable computer database on a web site. Future developments under consideration include direct internet links via CANMORE-web, through ADS meta-data catalogue; simultaneous search of databases to be tested thru ADS and SCRAN 1999. All information systems with a few exceptions eg SCRAN are designed for specialist use. The information has to be channelled through professional staff for all users. This is an accident of history, but we now need to face the demand for easy access to intelligible information about the heritage for a multitude of purposes. Some existing information sources can be a part of that while others will more appropriately remain for specialist use. We are attempting to address this is Scotland with a number of ventures: - ADS ASP projects phase I and II and ZIP (Z39.50 proof of concept exercise with SCRAN, ADS and RCAHMS) - SCRAN - making available 15,000 captioned images and 100,000 basic records through this network which will be accessible to all schools and which will be tied to the National Curriculum and the National Grid for Learning. - Bid to the HLF to create an accessible layer of information about the heritage available over the internet, jointly between RCAHMS and Scottish SMRs. |
|
Interoperability |
Thesaurus = NMRs Wordlist being matched to monument thesaurus in England with view to creating a UK resource. Pilot project with SCRAN to test implementation in Scotland. Vocabulary control at present. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales |
|
Physical Address |
Plas Crug, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 1NJ. Tel 01970 621000. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
National Monuments Record of Wales |
|
Respondent(s) |
Terry James |
|
Brief Summary |
Mandatory: statutory obligations and work required by the SofS / Assembly; Planning Acts, WO Circs 60/96 = PPG15, 61/96 = PPG16; Public Records Act 1958 as place of deposit Terry James |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Wales > 12 miles offshore |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Not comprehensive but most comprehensive in Wales: some archae sites, hbs, most parks & gardens, some l'scape sites mapped from a.ps, some maritime heritage |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary and secondary migrated; some secondary abstracted - ENDEX core site record 126,000. RCAHMW contributes?. Child tables to - Gardens database - Chapels database - Photo table, - Archives catalogue and accessions register |
|
Media |
Much of all non-digital; some digital; some microfilm, no microfiche. Digitally, some text reports / catalogues, much databases, some graphics / images, survey data. |
|
Uses |
Conservation of discrete archae sites, hbs, parks & gardens; planning development control, countryside management, educational activities and private research. Talking to NMW as part of ENDEX |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Available in part: core for cataloguing and AP database planned. System lacks user-friendly access, contains sensitive information, and there are copyright problems There is direct routine access by national heritage organisations and occasionally through members of staff by local archaeological / heritage organisations over vernacular buildings, chapels etc. Occasional access also by further education (M), national Library over chapels (M) and universities (D). The other categories are never. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Disseminated through paper records at staffed record centre; also through index cards abstracted to form core of SMR records incl copies of OS cards held by SMRs; non-internet computer database on an internal network but not through publicly searchable computer database. Principal system developments focus on GIS, AP mapping and digital photos. Thesaurus = END Help and Glossary of Terms, providing vocabulary control. Routinely exchange info with SMRs, CADW SAM Register and LB lists, Nat Museum and Record Office; Portable Antiquities and DefBrit in prospect. Occasionally with landscape character assessment studies by Trusts through ENDEX, Nation Library, National and Local research groups, universities, field recording and specialist research organisations, other environmental databases. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
SAVE Britain's Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
70 Cowcross Street, London, EC1M 6EJ Tel: 0171 253 3500 fax: 0171 253 3400 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Buildings at Risk Database |
|
Respondent(s) |
Richard Pollard |
|
Brief Summary |
SAVE was established in 1975 by a group of journalists, historians, architects and planners to campaign publicly for endangered historic buildings through press releases, leaflets, reports, books and exhibitions. Its national Buildings-at-Risk register claims to be the first available on line, the only source for Wales and for Grade II listed buildings in England. "Information has been supplied in good faith from a variety of sources." |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Wales (not London) |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Listed historic buildings at risk |
|
Classes of Information |
Secondary information transferred from other data systems or abstracted from other sources |
|
Media |
Digital database, catalogue and images |
|
Uses |
To heighten awareness of historic buildings at risk generally, and to attract potential purchasers who might repair and renovate them. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
On the internet through SAVE's web-site |
|
Interoperability |
Only interchange of information is to it from other sources; it does not intentionally contribute or link with any other databases. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Scottish Cultural Resources Access Network (SCRAN) |
|
Physical Address |
To complete |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
SCRAN Resource Base |
|
Respondent(s) |
Professor Bruce Royan; information derived from web site and paper presented to EVA 1998 "Cultural Content for the National Grid for Learning" |
|
Brief Summary |
SCRAN is a Millennium Project, supported by funds from the United Kingdom National Lottery, to build a networked multimedia resource bank for the teaching and celebration of human history and material culture in Scotland. The Founder members of SCRAN were the Scottish Museums Council, the National Museums of Scotland, and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland |
|
Period Coverage |
Palaeolithic Present day |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Human history and material culture |
|
Classes of Information |
By the year 2001, the SCRAN Resource Base is intended to contain at least 1.5 million SCRAN Basic Records, 100,000 Full Datasets and 100 Multimedia Essays:
Basic Records. Most cultural organisations, including museums, libraries, galleries and archives, have some form of documentation or collections management system. These systems have been developed for internal purposes to assist the smooth running of their organisations. They are domain specific (museum records are different in structure and vocabulary from archive records , for example) and they are not end-user oriented (they are intended for staff or specialist researchers, not the public). SCRAN is deriving information about the information in these systems, in compliance with the emerging standard core set of metadata elements, devised for end-user, cross-domain searching, which have become known as The Dublin Core. SCRAN is a metadata repository, containing Basic Records as pointers to SCRAN's own digitised resources, and to more detailed domain-specific records on other servers, as well as to other web sites and to visitor destinations in the real world.
Full Datasets. To at least 100,000 of these basic records, SCRAN is adding Caption material especially written for the intelligent lay reader, plus multimedia resources as appropriate. Typical multimedia resources include still images of 3D artefacts, flat art, scenary, aerial photos, industrial archaeology and historic buildings. Sound clips, movies, animations, models and even Virtual Reality are all also represented on the Resource Base. Thumbnail sized surrogates for these images are mounted on the world wide web and available freely to all, while bona fide educational users in membership of SCRAN have unlimited access to higher quality, screen size versions of the images which they can use for non-profit educational purposes. As a measure of future-proofing, the actual digitisation is done at a much, much higher level than is necessary for these educational images, so that they can be upgraded in the future when new technology demands it.
Multimedia Essays. While the hub of SCRAN will remain its central and ever-growing resource base, it is recognised that the appropriate technology for delivering electronic educational resources for many schools remains the CD-ROM. SCRAN has funding to grant-aid the production of up to 100 publications on CD-ROM, DVD, or whatever. Since the platform is less important than the content in these cases, SCRAN uses the term "Multimedia Essay" to indicate any educational publications funded by SCRAN and focussed at one particular part of the Curriculum. Many of these essays are being developed by commissioning them from production houses with the relevant programming, pedagogic and graphic design skills to create publications worth distributing in thousands of copies. SCRAN recognises, however, that many learning outcomes can be best achieved with the use of materials tailored to particular circumstances of the moment or the locality, and to this end SCRAN is also developing a number of templates; predefined frameworks (such as a quiz, a presentation, a time-line or a panorama) into which teachers without any technical expertise can slot resources selected by themselves and downloaded from SCRAN.
|
|
Media |
Digital: Internet and CD-ROM/ DVD |
|
Uses |
The SCRAN Resource Base is intended to inform education and research in schools and further and higher education, as well as to support usage by the general public. |
|
Functionality |
|
| Accessibility |
Access to SCRAN is free, although subscribers can enjoy a range of value added services, including educational CD-ROMs, and the right to copy and re-use SCRAN multimedia resources. |
| Intelligibility |
SCRAN Basic Records are intended to be intelligible to the intelligent layman. Multimedia Essays are targeted at a schools audience. |
| Interoperability |
SCRAN Basic Records are based on a sub-set of Dublin Core metadata. The Resource Base is available via the Internet as a Z39.50 compliant target. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Scottish Natural Heritage |
|
Physical Address |
2 Anderson Place, Edinburgh EH6 5NP. |
|
|
Tel: 0131 4474784 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Scottish National Heritage Landscape Character Assessment, countryside, land use and nature conservation information
|
|
Respondent(s) |
Rebecca Hughes |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
Scottish Natural Heritage has responsibilities for nature conservation and countryside management in Scotland. Its Local GIS Facility (LGF) integrates spatial data linked to databases for the Landscape Character Assessment, current landcover (LCS88) , the National Countryside Monitoring System (habitat change mapping) and datasets for statutorily protected sites and nature reserves. The most relevant data for the historic environment is the Historic Landuse Assessment (qv) being developed by Historic Scotland with RCHMS which will provide a layer of historic environment data to complement to the Landscape Character Assessment. The LCA programme was initiated in 1994 and consists of 29 regional studies carried out in partnership with local authorities and other organisations to provide an inventory of the landscape of Scotland for the millennium.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Scotland |
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Landscape character, biological heritage (and historic landuse including settlement via future linkage with Historic Landuse Assessment of Historic Scotland)
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary and secondary migrated
|
|
Media |
Paper, printed text, printed maps, digital (spatial data, images and databases), photographic media. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
Landscape character assessments will act as a starting point for considering the options presented by a wide range of possible forces for change, particularly strategic policies and planning for landuse change and wildlife and habitat conservation.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Reports available in published hard copy; digital data available on internal network, only for use within the organisation and accessed remotely by regional offices; long term plans include electronic publication on CDROM and availability of data by request to appropriate organisations.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Designed for professional applications; hard publication of reports offer user friendly access for lay interest.
|
|
Interoperability |
Limited at present |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Society of Antiquaries of London |
|
Physical Address |
Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1V OHS, Tel: 0171 7340193, Fax: 0171 2876967 |
|
Internet Address |
SoA homepage http://dialspace.dial.pipex.com/town/lane/ad471/ SoA on-line catalogue http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/antiquaries/ |
|
Information System(s) |
SoA Library and database SoA Prints and Drawings Collection and database Kelmscott Manor Registered Museum - Micro musee dbase system |
|
Respondent(s) |
David Morgan Evans, General Secretary |
|
Brief Summary |
The Society of Antiquaries of London, by its Royal Charter of 1751, is charged with "the encouragement, advancement and furtherance of the study and knowledge of the antiquities and history of this and other countries". The range of the Society's interests thus covers a wide field from archaeology of all periods and all countries to heraldry, art history, architectural history and other studies based on the study of the material remains from the past. The Society is governed by its Royal Charter and Statutes. The main governing body is the Council, comprising twenty elected members. Council is advised by seven Standing Committees: Executive, Finance, Publications, Croft Lyons, Library, Research and the Morris Fund; and by six Special Committees including the Kelmscott Management Committee. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Europe - Library / Museum UK - Prints and drawings Sub-national region - Kelmscott Manor World - Society world wide coverage / membership |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Information system related to the historical development of the Society and the systems are concerned with the delivery of the aims of the Society at appropriate levels |
|
Classes of Information |
The SoA library has information on virtually every aspect of the historic environment Primary - deposit of original records, notes, unpublished papers and is a registered museum with its collections Secondary abstracted - catalogues and indices of collections |
|
Media |
Paper manuscript or typescript Drawn / graphic material Printed text Printed maps Photographs and slides Digital records Microfilm Microfiche CDs |
|
Uses |
The library and associated information systems are available for use by members of the Society and provide a wide range of information Archaeological sites and monuments Historic buildings Museum collection - Is a registered museum but also provides information to other museums and about artefacts Strategic planning Landuse planning Kelmscott House Designated historic areas Wildlife and habitat conservation Economic / urban regeneration Estate / property management Countryside management - also used by Duchy of Cornwall Community based conservation schemes Educational activities - Museum also involved in these activities Tourism and leisure activities Other - Burlington House involved in London House Open Day
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Kelmscott Manor - open to the public SoA library - staffed library, only open to fellows or to those with appointments and references. Open access once inside Burlington House to most things - some limits External enquiries dealt with by phone, fax, email etc Post 1988 library accessions catalogue available through ADS |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
No use of standard thesauri Internet library catalogue at ADS |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings |
|
Physical Address |
37 Spital Square, London E1 6DY. Tel 0171 377 1644. Fax 0171 247 5296 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Barns Survey |
|
Respondent(s) |
Matthew Slocombe |
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary - carried out early / mid 1980s |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England |
|
Period Coverage |
Barn-specific periods |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, some secondary migrated and abstracted. "Some thousands" of records |
|
Media |
Much paper; some drawn / graphic, printed text, printed maps, photographs / slides. Digital database. |
|
Uses |
`Dead' archive |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
`Dead' archive, presumably consultable by appt but getting increasingly `historic' |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
`Dead ` archive Info dissemination on a non-internet computer on an internal SPAB network |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings |
|
Physical Address |
37 Spital Square, London E1 6DY. Tel 0171 377 1644. Fax 0171 247 5296 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Casework Archive |
|
Respondent(s) |
Matthew Slocombe |
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Mainly UK but with material from some other parts of the world |
|
Period Coverage |
Cases 1877 - 1990 |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Mostly historic buildings; some archae sites, cons areas |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, little secondary migrated, some secondary abstracted "Some thousands" of records. |
|
Media |
Much paper manu/typescript; some graphic, printed text & maps, photos; no digital |
|
Uses |
Cons of discrete archae sites and hist bldgs Occasional use by LPA. estate / property manager, local & national archae / heritage organisation, local / national museum, nat hist or archae group, archae field practice, secondary school & FE coll, libraries and record offices, NT, amenity and community groups, media, archjtectural practices, Building Preservation Trusts, but mainly private individuals |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Yes; limited physical space, access only by arrangement |
|
Interoperability |
Info dissem thru paper records in staffed library. No firm plans for computer database. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings |
|
Physical Address |
37 Spital Square, London E1 6DY. Tel 0171 377 1644. Fax 0171 247 5296 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Informal Index of Conservation Professionals |
|
Respondent(s) |
|
|
Brief Summary |
Discretionary; kept up to date as far as possible. Index of people SPAB is willing to suggest to members / public |
|
Content |
UK |
|
Uses |
Routinely LPA and estate / property manager, architectural practice; occasionally national / local archae or heritage organisation, archae field practice, NT, amenity groups, media, Building Preservation Trust, but mainly private individuals |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Limited space for access which must be by arrangement; contains sensitive information. |
|
Interoperability |
Info disseminated through paper records in the office.
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Survey of the Jewish Built Heritage in the United Kingdom & Ireland |
|
Physical Address |
Dr Sharman - Kadish Project Director, Survey of the Jewish Built Heritage, Jewish Memorial Council, 25 Enford Street, London, W1H 2DD |
|
Internet Address |
mailto: sharman.kadish@man.ac.uk http://www.art.man.ac.uk/reltheol/jewish/heritage/Survey.htm |
|
Information System |
|
|
Brief Summary |
Jews in Britain, unlike those in Continental Europe, have enjoyed 300 years of continuous settlement. A unique physical legacy of Jewish landmarks, both sacred and secular, survives, including synagogues, burial grounds, mikvaot [ritual bathhouses] and social architecture. Much of the architectural heritage of British Jewry has been lost through wartime bombing, demographic shift and urban renewal, and that which remains is vulnerable to vandalism and decay. In comparison with the Christian denominations, Jewish buildings remain under-represented on the Statutory National Monuments List. The Jewish Built Heritage in the UK & Ireland is the first comprehensive survey of Jewish monuments and sites ever undertaken in Britain. It has been made possible through a substantial grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). The HLF was one of several funds set up by the British Government to distribute money which is raised by the National Lottery, created in 1994. The support which the Survey has already received from official sources demonstrates that the so-called 'cultural industries' in Britain have embraced the reality of a multi-cultural society. The Jewish cultural heritage has finally achieved recognition as an integral part of Britain's national heritage.
In addition to scholarly research, the Survey aims to promote preservation on a practical level through the listing (land-marking) of the most important sites, raising public awareness and knowledge about the Jewish architectural heritage and encouraging Jewish cultural tourism in Britain. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK and Ireland |
|
period coverage |
The Survey covers monuments and sites which date from before the Second World War. |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
|
|
lclasses of information |
Primary |
|
media |
A computerised database, conforming to the Council of Europe Core Data
Index to Historic buildings and monuments of the architectural heritage (1995), is being created for the project.
Text, photography and measured drawings
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Sussex Archaeological Society |
|
Physical Address |
Bull House, 92 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1XH. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Sussex Archaeological Society Collections Management Systems |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mr John Manley, Chief Executive |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
Sussex Archaeological Society manages six museums, including the site museum at Fishbourne Roman Palace, a library collection, a series of ongoing excavation projects and a publication programme (Sussex Archaeological Collections). Its information systems are designed to aid the management of this portfolio of heritage resources. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
Sussex, England |
|
Period Coverage |
All
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Archaeological artefact and historic artefact collections; library collection and excavation archive relate to archaeological sites and historic buildings.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely primary, some secondary abstracted. Library collection over 30,000 volumes, plus prints and photographic collection. Object numbers for museum collections not available at time of interview. Cataloguing of collections is incomplete.
|
|
Media |
Paper, drawn/graphic, printed text, photographs, slides, digital records (text and databases). Library collection catalogue is paper / manual index only.
|
|
Uses |
Primarily as a management tool for Sussex AS collections but also of value for researchers, members of SAS and cognate groups. Library and excavations archive are also major research resources. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information systems are for internal collections management use only but are used to assist staff in dealing with enquiries and requests for information, educational activities, interpretation and museum or site presentation. Museums collections management system uses mda Modes+ and standard thesauri; a new library information management system is under consideration. Library is available to members and by special arrangement to non-members.
|
|
Intelligibility |
Systems has no 'user friendly' interface; information output not readily interpreted by non-expert.
|
|
Interoperability |
Current discussion with ADS about digital archiving for excavations and adding Sussex Arch Collections publication to the ADS catalogue. Information standards in place and potential for interoperability in future for some parts of collections. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Theatres Trust |
|
Physical Address |
22 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H OHR Tel: 0171 836 8591 Fax: 0171 836 3302 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Curtains |
|
Respondent(s) |
Paul Connolly (Administrator); Catherine Croft (Architectural Officer) |
|
Brief Summary |
The Theatres Trust was set up by Act of Parliament in 1976 to promote the better protection of theatres for the benefit of the nation. It is concerned with all theatres - old and new, used and disused. It has a statutory role in considering planning applications, provides advice on theatre buildings to grant-making bodies, including the Arts Council and Heritage Lottery Fund and helps theatre managements and preservation bodies with specific campaigns and feasibility studies. See Catherine Croft, `The work of the Theatre Trust's Architectural Officer', Context 58, June 1998, 9-10. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
Mainly pre-1950 but with some more recent examples on the database |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic theatres, including cinemas with a stage. cp Cinema Theatres Association with whom TTT has good working relationships. |
|
Classes of Information |
2,700 + records Much primary and some secondary migrated & abstracted: large paper archive. |
|
Media |
Much paper / typescript as handwritten assessment forms by volunteers. Some photos / slides. Little drawn / graphic, printed text, printed maps. Database. |
|
Uses |
Conservation of historic buildings; consultations for some Local Plans, and routinely for development control. Occasional users: local and national archae / heritage orgns, university, national amenity groups, popular media and commercial orgns. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Information is held available within office but not being used much outside. All physical limitations apply; some confidential info with planning casework papers. |
|
Interoperability |
Each entry to data-base checked for consistency. Has reached quantitative plateau; main enhancement will be qualitative. Some informal word-lists. Main problem is keeping records up to date and consistent, but firm proposal for a part-time Information Officer. Info on non-internet computer database on internal network. Considering putting info on a web-site, also scanning in images |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
Tiles & Architectural Ceramics Society |
|
Physical Address |
Myra Brown, TACS Secretary, Liverpool Museum, William Brown Street, Liverpool L3 8EN |
|
Internet Address |
http://users.aimnet.com/~tcolson/pages/tileorgs/tacsinfo.htm |
|
Information System |
The compilation and maintenance of a tile and architectural ceramic location index by members of the Society who report on the site and condition of tile installations in situ throughout the UK. |
|
Brief Summary |
Since 1981 the Tiles & Architectural Ceramics Society has served as Britain's national society responsible for the study and protection of tiles and architectural ceramics, uniting people with common interests. An international membership of individuals and institutions is drawn from the fields of museum conservation, manufacturing (both industrial and craft), architecture, design, and antiques. The Tiles & Architectural Ceramics Society is for anyone with an interest in tiles and decorative ceramics related to buildings. |
|
Content |
|
|
geographical content |
UK |
|
period coverage |
Non period specific |
|
thematic / subject coverage |
Tiles |
|
classes of information |
|
|
media |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
accessibility |
|
|
intelligibility |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
UK Database for Historic Parks and Gardens |
|
Physical Address |
Landscapes & Gardens, Department of Archaeology, University of York, King's Manor, York YO1 7EP |
|
Internet Address |
http://www.york.ac.uk/depts/arch/landscapes/ukpg/database/index.htm |
|
Information System(s) |
database for Historic Parks and Gardens project library |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr David Jacques |
|
Brief Summary |
The database is a comprehensive inventory of UK Parks and Gardens for research and policy making purposes. It was supported by DCMS and the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust. It contains outline information on sites, their location by county, associated designers and contact names and addresses for those bodies that may have further information. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
UK |
|
Period Coverage |
Non-period specific but mostly Post-Medieval |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic Parks and Gardens Historic Sites Conservation Areas World Heritage Sites Biological Heritage |
|
lClasses of Information |
Mainly Secondary migrated with some abstracted information. |
|
Media |
Mainly digital records - text reports and catalogues / database Paper - Project library |
|
Uses |
Local authority planning / development service Local authority environment and countryside service Local archaeology / heritage organisation Local history or archaeology group Education - FE Local and national heritage group Tourism Commercial organisation |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Database coverage limited at present to 3,500 sites out of an estimated 10,000 Internet only - limited resources to provide public access to library System contains sensitive and copyrighted information |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
Bespoke thesauri but MIDAS standards employed Database not linked to other comparable information sources and not Z39.50 enabled (`links' page to be published shortly) |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) |
|
Physical Address |
UHI Executive Office, Caledonia House, 63 Academy Street, Inverness IV1 1BB, Tel: 01463 252300, Fax: 01463 236736 |
|
Internet Address |
http://www.uhi.ac.uk/ |
|
Information System |
UHI Wide-Area Network (WAN) using a private ATM network delivering a multi-megabit service at some twenty-six locations |
|
Brief Summary |
ADVANCE \d 3 The UHI is a new kind of university created on the basis of a network of existing further education colleges and research centres throughout the Highlands and Islands. They would be linked by a high-speed communications system and operate as a whole within a federal collegiate framework sharing intellectual and professional resources. The overarching principles of UHI are to: widen access to high quality tertiary education increase participation rates through new approaches to learning and teaching making the most of the new information and communication technologies develop an indigenous research and development infrastructure support the region's unique cultural and environmental heritage act as a major catalyst for economic and social regeneration The key factor in the realisation of UHI's distinctive approach to the creation of a new university is the widespread utilisation of 'cutting edge' information and communication technologies (ICT) and the opportunities they provide for educational innovation. ICT developments are fundamental in overcoming the barriers of distance and time. Data networking between sites will be based on the UHI Wide-Area Network (WAN) using a private ATM network delivering a multi-megabit service at some twenty-six locations across a region bounded by Perth, Shetland, Elgin and Stornoway. In turn, the enormous technical capacity of the UHI WAN will support a range of complementary developments: data networking at sites through a Local-Area Network (LAN) integrated telephony systems at all sites allowing self-dialled tariff-free internal voice and ISDN video conferencing calls across the network internal broadcasting services, including TV and radio channels These ICT infrastructures will allow data networking, both to the Internet via the JANET network, and internally to provide various Intranet facilities, including on-line teaching materials and learning resources and, importantly, a platform for integrated management and administration systems. Some twenty-five million pounds will be spent on this ICT development programme through to the end of the century. The main centres of network nodes will be the campuses of the UHI partner institutions but local centres, which are rapidly proliferating are giving rise to 'Community Learning Networks' allowing local communities to gain access to educational services provided across a common ICT infrastructure spanning the Highlands and Islands and linked into the Internet. Such developments extend UHI educational services to many small communities outwith normal commuting time from UHI campuses and also have significant local economic and social benefits. |
|
Content |
|
|
Uses |
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
interoperability |
|
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Victorian Society |
|
Physical Address |
1 Priory Gardens, Bedford Park, LONDON W4 1TT. |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
Casework |
|
Respondent(s) |
Dr William Filmer Sankey |
|
Brief Summary |
|
|
|
The Victorian Society is one of the six national amenity societies to whom the S/S directs that notifications shall be sent under powers in the Town & County Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, and as directed in circulars 1/97, and 14/97. The Society receives and manages information about all proposed demolitions of listed buildings and also receives information on demolitions in Conservation Areas.
|
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Wales
|
|
Period Coverage |
1837 -1914
|
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Historic buildings; conservation areas; historic parks & gardens; world heritage sites.
|
|
Classes of Information |
Largely secondary migrated and abstracted, some primary information (case work notes and correspondence) c. 3000 case files in hand and new notifications generate c. 350 cases a year.
|
|
Media |
Paper, drawn/graphic, and photographic /slides with some printed text. |
|
Uses |
|
|
|
The principal use of casework information is in management of the Victorian Society's role as a statutory consultee and to provide systematic documentation of its responses to lbc applications. It is designed to inform conservation of historic buildings, registered historic parks and gardens and historic urban areas of the Victorian period, and the Society's strategic planning and advisory activities for these aspects of the historic environment, including urban regeneration, estate / property management, community based conservation and educational activities. Information exchanges are routinely from the Listed Building System and from local authorities.
|
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
The casework files are available for use by others. Requests for information are dealt with through Victorian Society staff with reference to casework files, and access as appropriate. Users include, on an occasional basis, estate / property managers, local and national heritage bodies and history / archaeology groups, the National Trust, amenity and community groups, media and commercial organisations. Physical access is limited by space and staff resources for information retrieval and supervision. It is proposed to move casework management from the current paper system to a database, and in due course to transfer archive of past cases to the London Metropolitan Archive for archive management (where it would remain publicly accessible).
|
|
Intelligibility |
Current system designed for internal use by professional conservation caseworkers.
|
|
Interoperability |
None at present. Access to statutory heritage datasets and interoperability within a centralised notification system for all the national amenity societies (through the Joint Committee of National Amenity Societies) offers considerable advantages, |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
The Village Lock-up Association |
|
|
|
|
Physical Address |
7 Inch's Yard, Market Street, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5DP |
|
|
Tel: 01635-42864 fax: 01635-552366 |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
National Register of Village Lock-Ups |
|
Respondent(s) |
Andrew Plumridge |
|
Brief Summary |
The Village Lock-up Association is a voluntary organisation working to protect and preserve for the benefit of the public the historical, architectural and constructional heritage existing in and around Britain's early punishment and detention devices. The purpose of the National Register is to make a nation-wide survey to provide important information about those lock-ups (including stocks, pillories, gallows, etc) which still exist, and an indication of those which have been lost. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
England and Wales |
|
Period Coverage |
Up to 1850 |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
Mostly historic buildings or their sites; some historic artefact collections. Village lock-ups, stocks, pillories, gallows, gibbets, pounds, pinfolds and other early (pre-police force) punishment and detention devices. |
|
Classes of Information |
Much primary, some secondary migrated and abstracted. About 1,500 records. |
|
Media |
Little paper manuscript / typescript and drawn / graphic material; some printed text, photographs / slides and postcards; much digital records. Digital records include much text reports and a database. |
|
Uses |
For informing the conservation of historic buildings in use. To identify owners and key-holders, record the condition of the buildings, costs of any restoration work and whether they are publicly accessible. When the project is completed, there will be information exchange with NMR and the results will inform the listing process. The system is used (through its manager) by local authority planning services, museums, history or archaeological groups, libraries and record offices, with whom there is occasional data-exchange. |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Material is disseminated through paper records at a staffed centre where the database is accessible on a single computer. Access is physically limited with regard to space, disabled access and the need for it to be by arrangement. |
|
Intelligibility |
|
|
Interoperability |
No further IT developments are envisaged. |
|
|
|
|
Organisation |
York Archaeological Trust (YAT) |
|
Physical Address |
York Archaeological Trust, Cromwell House, 13 Ogleforth, York YO1 7FG |
|
Internet Address |
|
|
Information System(s) |
YAT - Contracting unit Recognised museum authority with 3 registered museums (Jorvik Viking Centre, Archaeological Resource Centre and Barley Hall) Not separate information systems but interrelated |
|
Respondent(s) |
Mike Rains |
|
Brief Summary |
The YAT is a contracting organisation that originally worked within the York area but has now expanded beyond the confines of the city. The trust also operates two MGC registered museums, the Archaeological Resource Centre (ARC) and the Jorvik Viking Centre. |
|
Content |
|
|
Geographical Coverage |
York and its hinterland account for 90% of its collections Since the advent of developer funding work has been undertaken outside the core area |
|
Period Coverage |
Non period specific |
|
Thematic / Subject Coverage |
|
|
Classes of Information |
Primary - excavation and finds archives Secondary migrated records about these primary products |
|
Media |
Paper / manuscript Drawn /graphic material Printed text Photographs / slides Microfiche X-rays Digital records Text Databases Graphics GIS Geophysical survey |
|
Uses |
Primary role of information system is to help with its role as a contracting unit and registered museum - Archaeological sites Historic buildings Museum collections Historic urban areas Education Tourism |
|
Functionality |
|
|
Accessibility |
Access mainly to the products of YAT's work not primary data Public access to museums Information published in the York fascicule series Access allowed to the records for researchers Intranet - details finds info, context records, images etc Partnership with ADS to have York Gazetteer available over Internet |
|
Intelligibility |
Beset with the internal inconsistencies associated with a 25-year development - ie not everything catalogued to the same standards. Finds have been catalogued to strict mda archaeological objects thesaurus standards. Products of raw data ie Museum's very publicly orientated |
|
Interoperability |
Aspects of the information system are suitable for interoperability with more development, eg site level metadata, digital excavation archives |