Summary: This book provides information on best practices and solutions in order to successfully establish an archival programme; it uses a practical approach, without the use of technical or theoretical jargon. This book serves as a companion text in a theoretical archival course. The book provides easy-to-follow advice on how to assess the information needs of any institution and the greater community for which the archives were created to serve. The book also sets achievable goals for starting an archives programme in an environment where a small budget or even a 'no budget' can threaten the future of the archives. Key Features: 1. First book that attempts to de-mystify archives 2. Practical approach without the use of technical jargon 3. Easy to follow Plans of Action 4. Relationship building with key stakeholders (donors, administration, community partners, etc.) 5. Based on personal experiences in a wide variety of archival settings. The Authors: Marisol Ramos has been involved with archives and libraries since 2000 as a librarian's assistant and archival processor at the University of California, Los Angeles. Currently, she is working as a research librarian at the Virginia Reid Moore Marine Research Library at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro, California. Alma C. Ortega has been involved in library and archival organizations enhancing information services since 1998. Since 2003, she has been an assistant professor/librarian at the University of San Diego in San Diego, California. Readership: The book is of interest to first time archivists, library school curricula or anyone who wants to learn how to organize an archives program. The book is geared towards practitioners and to those who are beginning to explore the setting up of an archives program in a non-archival organization. Contents: Setting the stage - challenges facing archives Why bother creating an archive the right way? - justifications for an unimpressed audience Assessing the needs for