Glossary

Computer Ref No

This is the computer system identification number which provides a link to the full catalogue of a particular collection. Take care not to confuse this number with the Finding No when requesting a particular document.

Finding No 

This is the Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service reference you will need when requesting further information or to view records. There are two components: the classification or reference number, including any letter prefix, eg b118 or 496.5, and the Accession or BA number, including parcel number, eg BA5932 or BA9360/CAB 1/Box 35. Not to be confused with Computer Ref No

Level

This is the archival term for where the record can be found in the catalogue structure. The levels currently used in the catalogue are

Fonds

This is the archival term for a whole collection of records from one source. A fonds level description may give a summary of the archive collection, for example a particular County Council department

Sub Fonds

This is used for a subsidiary part of an archive collection such as a particular section within a County Council department.  There is sometimes further division into sub sub fonds, if appropriate.

Series

This is used for each series of records within the collection. For example minute books or correspondence files, with their covering dates.  There can be further divisions, if necessary into sub series and sub sub series.

File

This is used for an actual file or volume  or group of related records within a series. For example an individual correspondence file or minute book.

Item

This is usually one individual document within a series or file, with its date.