Should archivists edit Wikipedia, and if so how?

Abstract

Archival codes of ethics emphasize promoting archives and making them available to a wide audience. Literature highlights the importance of ‘participatory archives,’ often using Web 2.0 technologies. Using Archives 2.0 as a framework, this article suggests that archivists can move towards these goals by increasing their engagement with the online encyclopaedia Wikipedia. After identifying this wider context, the article evaluates in detail existing literature specifically on the subject of Wikipedia and archives. Particular scrutiny is placed on several case studies written by US university archivists who aimed to promote collections, and the issues they collectively highlight. To explore the question of how archives should engage with Wikipedia, this article uses a markedly different methodology to the case study literature. In-depth interviews were carried out with professional ‘Wikipedians in Residence’ who have worked with archivists, as well as archive professionals with relevant experience. An analysis section focuses on understanding Wikipedians’ perspectives on archives’ engagement with Wikipedia, comparing them with those of archive professionals, and ultimately emphasizing the importance of a collaborative way of working together. The conclusion makes recommendations based on this and draws out theoretical implications for Archives 2.0.