Editorial Policies

Libraries & the Cultural Record focuses on the broad history of collections of recorded knowledge in libraries, archives, and museums, public and private, in all periods of history, and in all cultural and social contexts. We invite submissions of scholarly research articles that explore the related domains, individually and in concert, of libraries and librarianship, archival and records enterprise, preservation and conservation, museums and museum administration, and the antecedents of the emerging field of information. For more information, see Author Guidelines.

Articles

The journal seeks submissions highlighting the drama of those creating, organizing, preserving, and facilitating access to the cultural record — recorded knowledge of human discovery, creativity, and achievement. We especially welcome articles that highlight the interplay of historical forces, issues, people, and ideas. All articles are subject to peer review.

Essays & Notes

We also welcome submissions of noteworthy essays on topics of interest to historians and other professionals in the Information Domain, as well as notes relating to professional activities and issues. Essays and notes are subject to review by the editor.

"Cultural Record Keepers"

We invite submission of images of bookplates, posters, and other visuals that represent a collection, public or private, or an institution charged with preserving and providing for the cultural record. An article of approximately 1,000 words should recount a brief history of the collection or institution and the historical background of the image itself. Submissions are subject to review by the editor. 

Book Reviews

Libraries & the Cultural Record also publishes reviews of current books relating to the broad history of collections of recorded knowledge in libraries, archives, and museums, and to the individuals involved in creating, organizing, preserving, or facilitating access to these collections. Book reviews are subject to editing for clarity or to meet space limitations.