Your observations are very astute.
I think in the Nixon White House, this was called a 'modified limited hang out.'
They released a bit of new info, even something that could be labeled 'bad,' but really isn't so much. Now, it's all old news.
I agree with your take that he signed the form to release the file to a known flunky, who would cull out anything damaging, rather than release the records to any who inquire. That's what Bush did.
I call, "Shenanigans!"
Pinz
'modified limited hang out.'
Yes, now you quote that, I remember it very well. It became a buzz in the press, kind of like gore's "no controlling legal authority."