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December 2001
Mr Donald McDonald (AO) Dear Mr McDonald Re: ABC Radio archivesMembers of our Association have raised with me their concerns about the strategy for the digitisation of ABC's Radio Archives, in particular the loss of the analogue masters with their conversion to a temporary digital format. The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) is the major peak representative body for the library and information sector. Its members include over 6000 individuals and organisations. The Association has previously written to Mr Shier about the value to the ABC of retaining appropriate staffing levels and staff with relevant archival and library and information qualifications and experience within its research and archives services. ALIA's first Object is 'to promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interest of all Australians and a thriving culture, economy and democracy'. It is in this context that I now write. The ABC is one of the greatest and most important Australian cultural institutions to provide for the free flow of information and ideas in the interest of all Australians and a thriving culture, economy and democracy. It is therefore vital that strategies are in place to incorporate the ABC's archives in all formats into Australia's cultural heritage, for the benefit of current and future generations. The Association's Board of Directors therefore seeks further information from you on the ABC's strategies and policy for the archiving and preservation of broadcast materials so it may be better informed on how these contribute, or should contribute to Australia's national cultural heritage. The Association appreciates that there are always funding considerations in these matters. However it is concerned that this needs to be balanced against the wider government responsibilities of ensuring access to information and ideas in the interests of all Australians. Following receipt of the strategies and policy information the Association's president and I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how the ABC and ALIA may work together to achieve the required resources and collaboration with other agencies to provide for the ongoing preservation of and access to ABC archives. In the interim the Board strongly recommends there be consultation with the National Archives on the implications for the keeping of Commonwealth records of the proposed digitisation of the radio archives and disposal of the analogue tapes. Further, the Board urges the ABC Board to recognise the importance to the nation of the radio archives and not take any action now which may render them inaccessible in future. Yours sincerely
Jennefer Nicholson
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