Sample interview questions: What steps do you take to ensure the authenticity and provenance of digital archival materials?
Sample answer:
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Establish a Clear Acquisition Policy:
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Define the types of digital materials to be acquired and the criteria for their selection.
- Ensure that the materials align with the institution’s mission and strategic goals.
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Document the acquisition process and maintain detailed records of all transactions.
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Verify the Authenticity of Digital Materials:
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Examine the digital materials for any signs of tampering or alteration.
- Use digital forensics tools to analyze the files’ metadata and identify any inconsistencies or anomalies.
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Compare the materials with known authentic copies or trusted sources.
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Document the Provenance of Digital Materials:
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Record the origin and history of the materials, including the creator, the date of creation, and any changes in ownership or custody.
- Obtain written documentation, such as contracts, deeds of gift, or transfer agreements, to support the provenance.
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Maintain a detailed chain of custody for all digital materials.
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Ensure the Integrity of Digital Materials:
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Implement robust security measures to protect the materials from unauthorized access, modification, or deletion.
- Regularly back up the materials to multiple secure locations.
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Monitor the integrity of the materials using checksums or other verification methods.
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Establish a Metadata Standard:… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/18_0_10/Archival%20Librarian