5th July 2011, 11:50 AM
With regards to the paper and image archive I think we should consult with the newspaper and media industry, in particular with commercial archives such as some of the picture libraries, and ask how they plan for system/data upgrading and technological redundancy as well as physical space requirements. Surely people who do this for commercial reasons probably have a business model that archaeology could adapt for our slightly more esoteric ends....? As for the material archive, surely it is possible to create depositories based upon the same criteria as used for rating archaeological significance i.e international, national, regional and local considerations that would at least eliminate the need for endless repetition of collecting the same material....
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...