Preservation of documentary heritage in Malawi

Abstract

Through preservation, access, use and re-use of documentary heritage can be promised. The paper explored the preservation of documentary heritage in Malawi as there was there is lack of appreciation on the importance of preservation of documentary heritage by policy makers making it a least government priority. The study employed a multi-method design in order to collect both qualitative and quantitative.  The study identified documentary heritage materials preserved at National Archives of Malawi in form of public archives, historical manuscripts and, printed and published works. It found out that documentary heritage materials are important as they promote people’s enjoyment and inspiration, cultural values, learning, economic prosperity and social equity.  Preservation techniques that are followed at the institution include basic mending and minor repairs; binding; cleaning and dusting of materials; photocopying; shelving library materials; provision of adequate security; use of insecticide and insect repellant; refreshing; technology preservation and; migration. Challenges faced when preserving these materials include lack of purposely built infrastructure, limited funding and understaffing. These challenges are handled in-house, seeking government intervention and also from donors. The study recommends that use of documentary heritage materials should be promoted to different users and; National Archives of Malawi should push for customised infrastructure, fight for more funds and staff. It concluded by saying that documentary heritage forms an important aspect of the country’s memory and it helps in bridging the past and the present and in shaping the future.