In terms of archival collecting, appraisal refers to the process of identifying materials that have sufficient value to be acquired for our libraries. Appraisal is most effective when completed before a collection is donated and on site. Performing appraisal before the material is acquired allows us better control over the content of our collections. Appraisal can be performed after the collection is on site, but rights of disposal must be given in the deed of gift in order to properly appraise and select the appropriate materials for retention.

Records are appraised to distinguish records of continuing value from those of no further value. In general, there are primary and secondary levels of value:

1. Primary: the value of the records to the organization that created them for administrative, legal, and fiscal purposes.
2. Secondary: the historical value of the records for researchers, whether internal or external to the organization that created the records.

Use the optional appraisal checklist to determine whether records are appropriate for permanent retention in University Libraries.

For guidance on reappraising existing collections at University Libraries see the Society of American Archivists' Guidelines for Reappraisal and Deaccessioning.