INTRODUCTION
 The sections which follow examine the importance of good record keeping within the public sector and explore the need to manage information as a strategic resource. They outline the purpose of records and archives management; define the key terminology, theories, and principles underpinning records and archives care; and present a rationale for developing an integrated records management program. They review the legal and regulatory infrastructure for records and archives and conclude by outlining the key activities undertaken in records and archives management. A toolkit for assessing records management capacity can be found at: archives.worldbank.org.
 
 CONTENTS
 Introduction 
 Section 1 Recognizing Records as a Strategic Resource 
 Record Keeping and Accountability 
 The Collapse of Record Keeping Systems 
 Why Do Records Continue to Be Neglected? 9
 Electronic Governance and Electronic Records 11
 
 Section 2 Principles of Records and Archives Management 
 What Are Records? 
 Who Uses Records? 
 Principles of Records and Archives Care 
 Section 3 Developing a Strategic Approach for Managing Records
 Records, Archives, and Information Management 
 Integrated Records and Archives Management 
 Key Stages in Developing an Integrated Records and
 Archives Management Program
 
 Section 4 Developing a Legal and Regulatory Infrastructure for
 Records and Archives Management
 Reviewing and Revising Records Legislation 
 Reviewing and Revising National Policies 
 Organizational Policies and Structures 
 Determining Resource Requirements 
 Developing a Strategic Plan 
 Supporting and Sustaining an Integrated Records and
 Archives Management Program
 
 Section 5 Key Activities in Records and Archives Management 
 Organizing and Controlling Records 
 Appraising and Disposing of Records
 Providing Physical Protection for Records 
 Managing Records in Records Centers
 Managing Archives 
 Section 6 Management of Public Sector Records Study Program