The purpose of the International Association of Aquatic and Marine Science Libraries and Information Centers (IAMSLIC) Archives is to collect, organize, describe, preserve and make available for research and reference use the archival materials of the Organization and those ancillary records of the Organization’s Regional Groups which have enduring historical, legal, fiscal, and/or administrative value to warrant permanent preservation.

The IAMSLIC Archives seeks to promote knowledge and understanding of the origins, aims, programs, and goals of the Organization and of the development of these aims, programs, and goals as reflected in the workings of the official IAMSLIC offices, committees, and Regional Groups. It provides information services that will assist the operation of the Organization in addition to serving research by making available and encouraging use of its collection by members of the Organization and the community at large. Official organization records include any and all documentation in any form produced or received by any member of the International Association of Aquatic and Marine Science Libraries while engaged in the conduct of official IAMSLIC business.

The IAMSLIC Archives seeks to provide adequate and appropriate conditions for storage and preservation of official organization records. In addition, it facilitates efficient records management to further assure that permanently valuable records are preserved and to encourage efficient use of space within the Organization’s Archives housed at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. In collecting these materials, the Organization’s Archives undertakes to recognize and honor matters of privilege and confidentiality.

Approved by the Board on 25 January 2000.