The Architecture and Urban Planning Section proposes a panel or roundtable discussion devoted to archival research in the built environment. With today's increased interest in primary source material and the concurrent increase of archival materials available online, this is an opportune moment to discuss where we are now and what we need to advance. We propose inviting three to five panelists, who are creators and users of built environment archives. After introducing their roles and involvement in architecture archives, participants will discuss topics related to current archival research particularly focusing on online archival resources and tools. While we expect discussion of traditional issues of acquisition, assessment, description, and accessibility of archival materials, we will also seek out those who can speak to the creation and availability of diverse collections, particularly of under-represented architects and planners. Looking to the future, we want to begin answering the question of what is missing, yet crucial to a complete understanding of our built environment.
