When creating a preservation strategy for your collection, the first thing you need to know is what is in your collection and on your shelves. A collection map is the most logical way to visualise this.
The map is not a catalogue. It is not about each individual item, but about each type of item. The groups of items can then be appraised and evaluated, and a strategy to preserve them can be created.
The collection map is an important starting point for your preservation strategy and successively for your preservation plans. Creating a complete and thorough map will help you throughout the whole preservation process. Investing time and energy at this point will help you later on.
This tutorial guides you through the process of creating a collection map. Examples are included.