Why note languages:
To recognize the MIT and AKDC archives as a global resource that exists in many languages, to extend and uphold equity, diversity, and inclusion values.
In ArchivesSpace (both staff and public view) one can see all the languages represented at the collection level. This can help us see language strengths and gaps and quickly identify which collections are the most multilingual. Knowing which collections contain materials in which languages will allow us and descriptions to better serve users.
Language of Materials Note - applicable at any level
Follow the DACS rules when adding a language note.
This element identifies the language(s), script(s), and symbol systems employed in the materials being described, particularly as they may affect its use.
While most repositories in the United States provide descriptions in English, it is frequently the case that some or all of a body of archival material is in other languages.
DACS rules:
4.5.1 Derive the information from the materials themselves.
4.5.2 Record the language(s) of the materials being described.
Materials entirely in English.
Collection is predominantly in Vietnamese; materials in English are indicated at the file level.
Most of the material in this series is in Finnish. Some correspondence in English, French, and Swedish.
All records are in Latvian unless otherwise noted.
In Dakota, with partial English translation.
Captions on photographs are in English, French, and Spanish.
Japanese film subtitled in English and dubbed in French.
4.5.3 Record information about any distinctive alphabets, scripts, symbol systems, or abbreviations employed.
Later additions are in a seventeenth-century hand.
Several pamphlets in this series are in German Fraktur.
4.5.4 If there is no language content, record “no linguistic content.”
Note at collection level
Indicate language of materials in collection
Add as many languages as you need at the collection level to fully describe all languages in the collection
Use note to further describe where certain language materials are in a collection but do not use note as a place to list more languages - each language should be noted separately.
Avoid using “foreign language,” instead use specific language or if unknown use “Non-English.”
Example:
Include both Arabic and English. In the Language of Materials Note add to the content section, "Approximately a half of the materials (drawings) in the Rifat Chadirji Archive are in Arabic. English is the language used otherwise, or in addition to Arabic."
Note at item level
Include a language note if non-English. If you have a translation or more information include it in the scope and content note. Include name of translator if known.
Finding Aid Data note
Use this to note the language the finding aid is written in and if titles have been translated or kept in original language.
Example: Description is in English. Non-English titles have been retained and have not been translated.
How do you determine what the language is?
- Ask others - MIT Libraries language list - list of staff members and their language expertise.
- Google translate
- Crowdsourcing sites? Social media
- If unsure what the language is, use “undetermined” (at any level), we can then search for these later.
Diacritics and accent marks
Make sure to include these as they can change the meaning of words.
Options on how to create diacritics:
- on a PC hold down the windows key and . to see symbol options
- on a Mac hold down Control-Command-Space bar
- Copy and paste into ArchivesSpace.
.