Glossary of Terms

Here you will find explanations of some of the terms used in Canfod

Level: This is the term for where the record can be found in the catalogue structure.

Fonds: A fonds is the word use to describe an archive 'collection' as a whole e.g. Cardiff Borough Records

Sub-Fonds: A sub-fonds is a subsidiary section of the fonds e.g. Clerk's Department Records

Series: A series refers to a particular grouping of records within the sub-fonds e.g. minutes, accounts, letter books etc.

Item: An item is a single part of the fonds which can be requested for consultation in the searchroom e.g. a minute book, a letter, a photograph etc.

Document Ref No: This is the unique reference code given to each item held at the Archives. It is used to identify individual items and will be needed to consult documents in the searchroom or when requesting further information remotely.

Extent: This refers to the size and format of the fonds, sub-fonds, series or item in question e.g. 0.2 cubic meters, 10 volumes, 1 photograph etc.