Theories and methods of appraisal for records retention and archives acquisition to include managing records, constructing historical identities and pluralizing social memory. Emphasis on appraisal for archives acquisitions, including organizational and personal records in multiple formats, media and systems. The multiple uses of appraisal will be emphasized, especially in information management, record-keeping system designs, legacy conversions, and in managing change and innovation in archives. Emphasis on professionally responsible accountability to contemporaries and the future.