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Archaeology data service accredited by National Archives

Posted on 22 November 2023

The University of York’s Archeology Data Service has been accredited by The National Archives, the first digital-only archive to receive the award.

The Archaeology Data Service is based at King's Manor

The Archive Service Accreditation signals that the repository ensures the long-term collection, preservation and accessibility of archive heritage. Achieving accredited status demonstrates that the Archaeology Data Service has met national standards relating to the management, resourcing and care of its unique collections.

The Archaeology Data Service is a digital repository for archaeology and heritage data, hosted at the University of York’s Department of Archaeology, and includes information on approximately 3,000 archaeological collections such as evidence of Roman coins, medieval agricultural practices, major transport developments, such as HS2, and the archaeology of Easter Island.

National significance

Professor Julian Richards, Director of the Archaeology Data Service, said: “Our service is an invaluable resource to researchers, students and commercial enterprises, looking for data to support a whole range of projects, whether that is new infrastructure, such as train lines, or research that expands our knowledge of certain periods of history.

“This national accreditation reflects the hard work and robust processes put in place by our archivists to ensure that primary archaeological research data deposited with our service are preserved for the nation.”

Clear ambition

The National Archives collect and secure the future of government records, and are the guardians of over 1,000 years of national documents, ranging from the last will and testament of William Shakespeare to social media posts from Downing Street. Their Archive Service Accreditation defines good practice and aims to encourage and support the future development of archives across England and Wales. 

The accreditation accessor noted that the Archaeology Data Service set out clear ambitions, were proactive in their approach and enabled effective access to resources for their users. 

To find out more about the Archaeology Data Service visit their website: https://archaeologydataservice.ac.uk

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