Problematic content in our collections: A study of harmful content statements

Katherine M. Wisser and Jacob D. Savory
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Katherine M. Wisser: School of Library and Information Science, USA
Jacob D. Savory: Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, USA

Journal of Digital Media Management, 2025, vol. 13, issue 4, 380-401

Abstract: Online access to archival resources has motivated repositories to address the outdated content and harmful materials in their collections. Within this context, an important undertaking is the publication of harmful content statements on public interfaces, in addition to the attachment of warnings to the digital materials themselves. This kind of work is a significant step for institutions seeking to centre restorative justice in their work and privilege community voices, values and knowledge. This paper analyses 98 harmful content statements to understand their structure, language and themes. The analysis reveals that these statements share some commonalities but also vary widely. The paper concludes with recommendations regarding the construction or revision of harmful content statements. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/

Keywords: harmful content statements; reparative work; access; digitisation; ethical stewardship (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: M11 M15 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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