Archival Access Points explores the under-examined world of preserving LGBTQ comics, a unique art form representing a vital part of LGBTQ history. The book addresses the specific challenges archives and libraries face in acquiring, cataloging, and providing access to these materials. Many of these comics exist outside mainstream channels, often self-published or in digital formats, posing long-term storage and accessibility issues. Traditional cataloging methods also often fail to capture the nuances of LGBTQ experiences, making appropriate metadata crucial. This study examines the evolving practices used to preserve LGBTQ comics and the developing academic field analyzing them as cultural artifacts. It highlights that thoughtful preservation and accessible cataloging are essential to safeguarding these voices, especially as content may be considered sensitive, requiring careful consideration of privacy. Through case studies and interviews, the book examines how institutions are actively addressing these challenges.
The book progresses by first introducing core archival theory and LGBTQ comics history. It then examines case studies of institutions preserving and cataloging these materials, culminating in proposed best practices and ethical considerations. By focusing on the intersection of LGBTQ comics and archival practices, this offers a unique perspective valuable to archivists, librarians, scholars in gender and sexuality studies, and anyone interested in preserving cultural heritage and promoting social justice.
