backfile
nounPronunciation: /ˈbækfaɪl/
The archived collection of previously published issues of a journal or serial publication.
Full Definition
A backfile refers to the complete historical archive of a periodical publication, typically encompassing all issues published before a certain date or prior to current subscriptions. In academic libraries, backfile access is crucial for comprehensive research support and is often acquired separately from current subscriptions. Digital backfiles have transformed scholarly access by making decades of research instantly searchable and available. Publishers may offer backfile collections at different price points, and libraries must evaluate the research value against cost when making acquisition decisions.
Plain English
All the old issues of a magazine or journal that came out before the current ones.
In Editorial Context
Historical content that requires special consideration for digitization quality, metadata completeness, and integration with current publication workflows.
Etymology & History
Term gained prominence with the digitization of print archives and the need to distinguish historical content from current subscriptions.
Originally referred to physical storage of old issues, now predominantly used for digital archives and database collections.
Usage
"The library purchased the complete backfile of the journal dating back to 1925 to support the new doctoral program in environmental history."
Usage note: Distinguish between complete backfiles and selective historical coverage when describing collection scope.
Context: collection development, digital archives, subscription negotiations
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Sometimes used interchangeably with 'archive' but specifically refers to serial publications rather than general document collections