Berkshire’s Archives Retain National Recognition
Huntley and Palmer’s Home Guard 'Through Their Eyes' exhibition
BERKSHIRE Record Office, the archives service for the Royal County, has kept its award of Archive Service Accreditation.
Currently, only around 6% of UK archives have accredited status. Archives Service Accreditation is the UK quality standard for archive services. It recognises good performance in all areas of archive service delivery. It is awarded by a national committee which represents the entire archive sector. Achieving accredited status demonstrates that Berkshire Record Office has met clearly defined standards relating to management and planning, the care of its unique collections and what the service offers to its entire range of customers. It shows that the service is working hard to protect and promote the County’s rich archival heritage. Berkshire Record Office is funded by all six district councils in Berkshire, including Reading Borough Council. It is based in Reading but cares for original books, papers, plans and photographs from across the County. The earliest items date from the 12th century. Notable collections include not just the council archives but those of the Thames Conservancy, Broadmoor Hospital and Reading Prison.Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said:
“I’d like to congratulate Berkshire Record Office on retaining this prestigious accreditation. The renewal of this national recognition is testament to all the hard work put in by the archive’s dedicated staff, especially since this has been such a challenging year to date. If you haven’t already done so, check out the Record Office’s fascinating website www.berkshirerecordoffice.org.uk and their social media channels, which give an excellent glimpse into the archive. “It is also a great example of partnership working; it shows how a creative approach to service delivery can work and it is excellent to know these fantastic resources are in safe hands.”Mark Stevens, County Archivist added:
“We’re delighted to have our award renewed. It’s something that all the Berkshire districts can feel very proud of, particularly as local services reopen after lockdown. We look forward to doing all we can to look after and share the county’s wonderful documentary heritage.” The Archive Service Accreditation Panel: “commended the service’s sustained effective work”.Ends
Notes to editors:
Image from the current exhibition 'Through their eyes' https://throughtheireyesww2.com a virtual exhibition marking the 75th anniversary of VE day. Photo shows: Huntley and Palmer’s Home Guard (Copyright Berkshire Record Office) Berkshire Record Office is currently closed to the public but is hoping to reopen shortly, Tuesdays-Fridays. In the meantime, the Record Office can answer written and telephone enquiries, provide copies and undertake research as usual. Berkshire Record Office is based at 9 Coley Avenue, Reading, RG1 6AF. Tel: 0118 937 5132- Email: arch@reading.gov.uk
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