Asterisk*
Working with the Asterisk*
The step-by-step plan on this page is a simplified version of the Asterisk* manual, which you can download below. In addition to the Asterisk*, the manual contains four other tools to help you examine or rethink how we interact with archives.
Step 1: Choose an object
Start with one archival item, such as a photograph, drawing, advertisement or construction plan. Ask yourself:
- Where does this object come from?
- Who made it or donated it?
- Who wrote the title or description?
- Who was it intended for?
Step 2: Find the missing stories
Investigate whether anything is missing from the description of this object. For example, consider:
- Whose voice or perspective is missing?
- Which words have been chosen as keywords? Are they accurate, complete or outdated?
- Who is (not) mentioned in the description?
- Then, seek more information: talk to those involved, read background information, search online or organise a meeting.
Step 3: Document your research
Write down your findings. What have you discovered? What would you like to change or add to the description? Consider:
- A better or more specific title
- New keywords
- An additional explanation about its history or relevant sensitivities
Step 4: Add the Asterisk*
Clearly mark the new information with an *. This way, others will know that this is additional information based on further research. Also, explain why the addition is important.
Step 5: Invite others to contribute
Create space for others to contribute information. This can be done through the suggestion form, an open workshop or via email. This makes the archive a place for collaboration, not just for preservation.
Step 6: Continue with new and existing archives
Use the Asterisk* for new acquisitions or additions to your collection. Revise old descriptions where necessary, and ensure that everything is added carefully and respectfully.
Get started on the Collection Platform
Go to the [Collection Platform]((https://collectie.nieuweinstituut.nl), search for archive items and use the form to suggest changes.
For questions and comments, please contact us by email.
The Working Group
The Asterisk* is a tool developed by the Working Group as part of the Collecting Otherwise project. Since 2025, it has been an ongoing project in the Nieuwe Instituut’s Collections department, in consultation with Nieuwe Instituut colleagues and external researchers and partners.
The working group consists of Ernst des Bouvrie (archivist), Evelien Dekker (registrar), Loïs Hutubessy (application manager), Stefanie Korrel (curator) and Anya (Anna) Naumova (relations coordinator).
Advisors: Setareh Noorani (researcher) and Sofie de Caigny (head of Collection).