Archivist

What is an archivist?

An archivist is someone who is responsible for the collection, management, and preservation of historical documents and records. They organize, catalogue, and ensure the long-term preservation of valuable materials.

What does an archivist do?

Usually, an archivist does the following:

• Collects and acquires historical records and documents from various sources.
• Organizes and catalogues records using specific archival methods and systems.
• Assesses the condition of records and prepares them for preservation.
• Creates finding aids and indexes to help users find specific information.
• Assists researchers and provides access to archival materials.
• Digitizes and manages electronic records and digital collections.
• Collaborates with other professionals in the preservation and management of collections.

What does the day-to-day life of an archivist look like?

An archivist usually works between 9am and 5pm, although this may vary depending on the institution or organization. They spend their time working with historical records, both physical and digital. They assess, organize, and preserve these records, ensuring their accessibility to researchers and other users.

Where does an archivist work?

Archivists can work in various settings, including:

• Libraries and Archives: Many archivists work in libraries and archives, preserving and managing historical collections.
• Museums and Art Galleries: Some archivists work in museums and art galleries to manage and preserve records related to the collections.
• Government Agencies: Archivists can work in government agencies, managing and preserving official records and historical documents.
• Historical Societies and Non-Profit Organizations: Archivists may work in historical societies or non-profit organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting local history.

What tools/software does an archivist use?

An archivist uses a variety of tools and software, including:

• Archival management software: Examples include ArchivesSpace and AtoM (Access to Memory), which help manage and describe archival collections.
• Digitization tools: Archivists may use scanners, cameras, and software to digitize records and create digital surrogates.
• Preservation equipment: This can include acid-free folders, boxes, humidity control systems, and specialized storage solutions.

What do I need to become an archivist?

There are several ways you can become an archivist, including:

• Bachelor's degree: Many archivist positions require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as history, library science, or archival studies.
• Master's degree: Some institutions prefer or require a master's degree in archival studies or a related field. This can provide specialized training and knowledge.
• Internships and Volunteering: Gaining practical experience through internships or volunteering at archives or libraries can be valuable in starting a career as an archivist.

What career paths are available for archivists?

There are several career paths available to archivists, including:

• Senior Archivist/Head of Archives: With experience, archivists can advance to senior positions where they oversee the work of other archivists and manage larger archival collections.
• Archival Consultant: Archivists with extensive experience can work as consultants, offering their expertise and guidance to organizations and institutions in need of archival services.
• Records Manager: Archivists can transition into records management roles, where they focus on the efficient organization and management of records within organizations.

What jobs are similar to an archivist?

• Librarian: Librarians and archivists share similar skills in organizing and providing access to information, although librarians often focus on a broader range of materials.
• Museum Curator: Museum curators and archivists both work with historical materials, but curators tend to focus more on artifacts and exhibitions.
• Historian: Historians conduct research and analyze historical sources, but they often rely on archivists to provide access to primary source materials.

What made you want to become an archivist?

How did you get your first archivist job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being an archivist?

Are you an archivist? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to archiving. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.