A group of sector organisations and experts has come together to form an alliance of organisations committed to advocating for specialist collections, knowledge and expertise. The group includes; CILIP, the library and information association, the Rare Books and Special Collections Group (RBSCG), the Art Libraries Society (ARLIS UK & Ireland) and the International Association of Music Libraries (IAML UK & Ireland) with others in support.

The Heritage Collections Advisory Group (HCAG) is an informal network of individuals and organisations with a shared belief in the importance of heritage collections, expertise and research in libraries, archives and museums (and their host institutions).

HCAG believes that the rich tapestry of the UK’s material heritage and the expertise of librarians, archivists, curators and other information professionals are a vital part of sustainable innovation and change in memory institutions.

The statement of principles published by the group focusses on the core areas of collections, expertise, people, innovation and resources and includes guidance on digitisation and preservation, the role and value of specialist staff and maintaining access.

The advisory group has been formed in response to recent concerns over the preservation and management of collections at libraries of national significance. It will also focus on promoting the value and role that special collections play in cultural heritage and to share best practice with interested parties.

Find out more at the Heritage Collections Advisory Group