This study explores the development of the archival profession during the 1980s, a period that experienced rapid change and the adoption of the first descriptive standards. The research focuses on the leadership roles played by individuals acting independently and on behalf of their employing institutions and professional associations in the adoption of the MARC AMC format. Activity fell into three stages in which the profession examined and redefined practices, codified knowledge, and key leaders formed a community of practice and interacted on levels beyond the mechanics of standards development and implementation. (Contains 37 notes.)