News: NRS hosts Archives and Records Association conference reception

The event, sponsored by brightsolid Online Publishing, was attended by the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, who welcomed archivists, records managers and conservators from around the world, as far afield as Hong Kong, China, Australia and the Republic of Burundi.

Ms Hyslop told delegates: "Archives and records have a huge cultural importance throughout the world and Scotland is no exception. Our archives reflect the long tradition of Scots living and working abroad as merchants, soldiers, explorers and entrepreneurs. There are few countries in the world where Scots have not made their mark, and we can trace that in the records held here. Today archives are an important tool of cultural diplomacy, reminding us about the heritage we share with other countries."

The evening also saw the launch of the Scottish Council on Archives' brochure Scotland's Archives Matter. This publication showcases the work of Scotland's archives and illustrates their importance as both cultural treasures and an important element of modern Scottish society. For further information see http://www.scoarch.org.uk/notice-board/234.