Strengthening the Protection of Documentary Heritage: ICA Releases "Guide to Prevent Thefts and Illegal Trafficking of Documentary Heritage"

This publication, produced by ICA’s Expert Group Against Theft, Trafficking and Tampering (EGATTT), offers essential guidance for anyone working with rare books, manuscripts, archives, or documentary material. As the global market for cultural heritage continues to grow, so too do the risks of theft, illegal trafficking, and the circulation of undocumented or illicitly removed items. Strengthening the knowledge, awareness, and cooperation of the professional community is more important than ever.

ILAB has been working more closely with the ICA throughout 2025, including participating in their recent conference in Barcelona, where safeguarding documentary heritage was a central theme. See a report >> HERE

The International Council on Archives (ICA) was established in 1948 and is a worldwide membership organization with more than 2,000 members in 161 countries and territories. It includes several expert groups, has regional branches, and professional divisions. The ICA Executive Board established the Expert Group Against Theft, Trafficking and Tampering (EGATTT) in 2018.
EGATTT provides a forum for high-level discussion and expert advice on the fight against theft, trafficking, and tampering of archives. Its work may include managing projects, the creation of tools and resources to support the work of the ICA Programme Commission (PCOM), ICA members, and the wider archives and records management network. The expert group may also give advice or assistance to the elected officers and the Secretary General on related issues.
EGATTT works closely together with partner organizations, including the Cultural heritage section of the International Federation of Libraries (IFLA) and the Consortium of European Research Libraries (CERL), to facilitate a coordinated approach to prevent theft, trafficking and tampering of archives.

ILAB supports shared efforts to promote ethical practice, improve collection security and help prevent illegal activities involving rare and antiquarian materials. This new guide represents a valuable tool in that united effort.

It includes:

• Practical guidance for archivists, librarians, and law enforcement agencies

• Tools to strengthen collection security and improve description of vulnerable items

• Clear procedures for responding to theft or illegal trafficking

• An overview of international legal frameworks and cooperation mechanisms

• A digital companion with extended material and links to key institutions

The document is available in an abridged and extended version on the >> ICA WEBSITE , or please find the extended version for DOWNLOAD BELOW.

ILAB encourages all affiliated booksellers to consult this document.