Archival Case Study: The Paris Review Archives
Project Description
The comprehensive case study scrutinizes an archival collection that encompasses a broad spectrum of materials generated by the Paris Review. This archive includes editorial correspondence, interviews, photographs, audio and video materials, bound issues of the Paris Review, and unprocessed materials. The project delves into the acquisition process, highlighting that the Paris Review archives were acquired by The Morgan Library in 1999 and 2005. The focal point of the archival study is how an archivist can manage a collection that documents both the personal papers of George Plimpton, a key figure in the magazine's history, and the institutional records of The Paris Review itself. The study critically evaluates the archival practices at The Morgan Library, considering the collection's accessibility, the impact of digitization, and the representation of the archive's value to both scholarly research and public interest.
My Role
I am the single author of this work.
Methods
The project started with the selection of The Morgan Library as the focal point due to its extensive literary collections, among which the Paris Review archives stood out. The initial review of the institution shed light on the library’s mission and collection policy, emphasizing its dedication to the humanities. Through an examination of the archive's finding aid, the project delved into its organization, content, and the prioritization of materials such as editorial correspondence and interviews for processing. This was supplemented by conducting an interview with a former staff member who was involved in processing the collection. A critical analysis, informed by scholarly literature, provided a nuanced understanding of the collection's sensitive materials. This includes previously unreported connections between the Paris Review and the CIA, specifically regarding funding and connections to the Congress for Cultural Freedom.
Rationale
The project demonstrates an application of information science principles to archive management, effectively combining archival theory with practice. It navigates the complexities of organizing a diverse collection, highlighting issues such as digitization and the sensitivity of materials. The study’s insights into enhancing accessibility and recommendations for future handling are informed by a critical analysis of both content and context, showcasing a deep understanding of the implications for research and public engagement on a popular magazine and literary authority.