Access denied: an exposé of information restriction at the Cape Town Archives Repository

Abstract

This paper explores the restriction of public access to information at the Cape Town Archives Repository (Archives). Restrictions on information in South Africa are usually linked with political agendas and oppression. This writer believes that there are many more forms of denying access to information and that those whose professions are associated with information dissemination often overlook these. By way of example she shares concerns that arose while practicing as a contract researcher in Cape Town. While the Cape Town Archives Repository is her basis of reference for this article she believes that similar problems of access exist at many South African archives and libraries. All observations made are garnered from personal experience and are not intended to target individuals.


(Innovation: 2002 24: 45-48)