Accessioning is the critical first step in managing archival collections, ensuring that newly acquired materials are formally accepted, documented, and integrated into a repository’s holdings. This essential process lays the groundwork for preservation, organization, and future access.

A strong acquisition policy is the foundation of a well-managed archive. It ensures collections align with an institution’s mission, meet legal and ethical standards, and remain sustainable over time. By defining scope, setting criteria, and planning for resources, archivists can build meaningful collections that serve researchers for generations.