The consideration...of the value to the institution is valid and instructive and adds much to the piece as a whole. Indeed, this approach is both sympathetic and informed and adds much to the volume (and indeed series) as a whole. . . .Altogether, this is a very useful volume.

Archives and Records: The Journal of the Archives and Records Association

Anyone who works in archival appraisal and acquisition will benefit from reading the cases documented in this book. Theimer’s selections demonstrate how theories of appraisal and acquisition can be applied in real-world situations, within the practical constraints that archivists face in their daily jobs. Graduate students in library and public history programs would also benefit from a careful reading of this book, which illustrates the uniqueness and complexity of every archival appraisal and acquisition decision. As with Theimer’s other works and writings on archives, this volume addresses cutting-edge issues while offering practical advice.

Technical Services Quarterly

Collectively these notes from the field both reaffirm and challenge the way archivists think about appraisal. Practitioners will want to read about what colleagues are really doing. Theoreticians who read the book will sometimes have some explaining to do. The book is an important read for every thoughtful archivist.

Frank Boles, Director, Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University and author of Selecting and Appraising Archives and Manuscripts

This set of fresh and relevant case studies does more than highlight the authors' successes and challenges. They also provide significant insights into decision making and adapting to changing conditions. This collection is a timely resource for archivists, students, and archival educators.

Aaron Purcell, Director, Special Collections, Virgnia Tech and author of Donors and Archives: A Guidebook for Successful Programs

Acquisition and appraisal are part of the art of being an archivist; a combination of theory and practice enhanced by intuition and a knowledge of human relationships. Kate Theimer’s volume offers the reader an opportunity to explore the technical complexity and creativity involved in the archival practice of determining what documentation and records will be preserved for the future.

Tanya Zanish-Belcher, Director, Special Collections & University Archivist, Wake Forest University and co-editor of Perspectives on Women's Archives