Embarking on a Career as an Archivist
Have you ever found yourself fascinated by old photographs, historical documents, or the stories that lie hidden within them? If so, a career as an archivist might be the perfect fit for you. Archivists are the guardians of our collective memory, preserving and organizing the records that tell the story of individuals, institutions, and entire societies. This article will guide you through the essential steps and considerations for entering this fascinating and vital profession.
What Does an Archivist Actually Do?
At its core, an archivist is responsible for the appraisal, acquisition, arrangement, description, preservation, and access of historical records. This isn't just about dusting off old books; it's a meticulous and intellectual process. Let's break down the key responsibilities:
- Appraisal: Archivists evaluate materials to determine their historical, legal, and administrative value. They decide what is worth keeping for future generations.
- Acquisition: This involves obtaining records, whether through donation, transfer, or purchase, from individuals, organizations, or government agencies.
- Arrangement: Once acquired, records are organized according to established archival principles, often maintaining the original order in which they were created (respect des fonds). This ensures context is preserved.
- Description: Archivists create finding aids, which are detailed inventories or guides that describe the contents of an archival collection. This is crucial for researchers to locate and understand the materials.
- Preservation: This is a critical aspect involving the physical and intellectual care of records. It can include proper storage conditions (temperature, humidity), using archival-quality materials, and sometimes performing conservation treatments to repair damaged items.
- Access: Archivists facilitate access to records for researchers, scholars, genealogists, and the general public, while also ensuring that sensitive or restricted materials are protected.
Where Do Archivists Work?
The work of an archivist can be found in a diverse range of settings:
- Government Archives: National archives (like the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration - NARA), state archives, and local government archives preserve public records.
- Academic Institutions: Universities and colleges maintain special collections and university archives, documenting their history and the work of their faculty and alumni.
- Museums: Many museums have archival components that complement their collections, preserving related documents and ephemera.
- Historical Societies: These organizations often focus on local or regional history and maintain extensive archival collections.
- Corporate Archives: Businesses and corporations may have archives to preserve their history, product information, and legal documents.
- Religious Institutions: Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious bodies often maintain archives of their congregational history and records.
- Libraries: Some libraries, particularly larger research libraries, have their own archival departments or special collections.
Educational Pathways to Becoming an Archivist
While there isn't a single, universally mandated undergraduate degree for aspiring archivists, a strong foundation in history, library science, or a related humanities field is highly recommended. The most common and often required educational step is a graduate degree.
Master's Degree Options:
The most widely recognized and often required credential for archivists is a Master's degree. Two primary paths are common:
- Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS): Many MLS/MLIS programs offer specializations in archives and records management. These programs provide a broad understanding of information organization, management, and access, with a specific focus on archival principles and practices.
- Master's Degree in History with an Archival Concentration: Some history departments offer graduate programs that include significant coursework in archival theory and practice, often in conjunction with internships.
- Master's Degree in Archival Studies: A growing number of institutions offer dedicated Master's degrees in Archival Studies, providing a specialized curriculum focused exclusively on archival science.
When choosing a program, look for accreditation by the American Library Association (ALA) for MLS/MLIS programs, as this is often a benchmark for employers. Also, consider programs that emphasize practical experience through internships or practicums, as hands-on learning is invaluable.
Undergraduate Preparation:
As an undergraduate, focus on developing strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Relevant majors include:
- History
- English
- American Studies
- Anthropology
- Political Science
- Art History
Taking courses in archival theory, preservation, or digital records management, if available, can be a significant advantage. Gaining familiarity with historical research methodologies is also crucial.
Gaining Experience: The Crucial Next Step
Education is essential, but practical experience is often the deciding factor for employers. Internships, volunteer work, and entry-level positions are invaluable for building your resume and skillset.
Internships and Practicums:
Most graduate programs will require or strongly encourage internships. Seek out opportunities at institutions that align with your interests. These experiences allow you to:
- Apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.
- Develop hands-on skills in arrangement, description, and preservation.
- Network with established professionals.
- Explore different types of archival settings.
Volunteer Opportunities:
If internships are limited or you're still pursuing your degree, volunteering at historical societies, libraries with special collections, or small local archives can provide excellent experience. Even a few hours a week can make a difference.
Entry-Level Positions:
Look for positions like "Archival Assistant," "Processing Assistant," or "Library Assistant" in archival settings. These roles often involve supporting archivists with tasks such as organizing collections, data entry for finding aids, and basic preservation work.
Key Skills for Success as an Archivist
Beyond formal education and experience, certain skills are paramount for a successful career in archival science:
- Research and Analytical Skills: The ability to critically evaluate information and understand historical context is fundamental.
- Organizational Skills: Meticulous attention to detail is required for arranging and describing complex collections.
- Attention to Detail: Small errors can have significant impacts on the usability and integrity of archival records.
- Communication Skills (Written and Verbal): You'll need to clearly describe collections, communicate with researchers, and potentially present your work.
- Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with databases, digital preservation tools, and content management systems is increasingly important.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: You'll often encounter unique challenges in dealing with diverse and sometimes fragile materials.
- Patience and Perseverance: Archival work can be time-consuming and require sustained effort.
- Ethical Judgment: Archivists must uphold professional ethics regarding privacy, access, and the stewardship of cultural heritage.
Digital Archives and the Future:
The field of archival science is rapidly evolving with the rise of digital records. Archivists are increasingly involved in managing and preserving born-digital materials, such as emails, websites, and digital photographs. This requires an understanding of digital forensics, metadata standards, and long-term digital preservation strategies. If you're interested in this area, consider pursuing coursework or certifications in digital archiving.
Professional Organizations and Certification
Becoming involved with professional organizations is a great way to stay current in the field, network with peers, and access resources.
- The Society of American Archivists (SAA): This is the primary professional organization for archivists in the United States, offering conferences, publications, and professional development opportunities.
- Regional Archival Associations: Many states and regions have their own archival associations that offer valuable local networking and educational events.
While not always mandatory, certification can demonstrate a commitment to professional standards. The Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) offers a certification program that many archivists pursue after gaining a few years of experience.
Building Your Career and Finding Opportunities
Once you have your education and experience, it's time to start looking for positions. Utilize professional job boards and network actively.
- SAA Career Center: The Society of American Archivists website features a robust job board.
- ALA JobLIST: The American Library Association's job board often includes archival positions, especially in libraries and universities.
- Institutional Websites: Check the "Employment" or "Careers" sections of university, government, and museum websites.
- Networking: Attend conferences, connect with archivists you've worked with or met, and let people know you're looking for opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does an archivist make?
Salary for archivists can vary significantly based on experience, geographic location, the type of institution, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Entry-level positions might start in the $40,000s, while experienced archivists in leadership roles at major institutions could earn upwards of $70,000-$100,000 or more. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides general salary data for "librarians and media collections specialists," which often includes archivists.
Why is an archivist important?
Archivists are crucial because they safeguard the evidence of our past, ensuring that the records of human experience are preserved for future understanding and accountability. They provide access to these records, enabling researchers to learn from history, connect with their heritage, and inform present-day decisions. Without archivists, valuable historical information would be lost, leading to a diminished understanding of who we are and how we got here.
How long does it take to become an archivist?
Typically, it takes about six to eight years of higher education to become a qualified archivist. This includes a four-year bachelor's degree followed by a two-year master's degree (MLS/MLIS or similar). This timeline can be extended if you pursue internships or additional certifications.
What is the difference between an archivist and a librarian?
While both professions deal with information management and access, their primary focus differs. Librarians primarily manage published materials (books, journals, databases) that are widely available. Archivists, on the other hand, manage unique, unpublished historical records that require specialized appraisal, arrangement, description, and preservation techniques. Archivists are concerned with the provenance and context of records, while librarians are more focused on subject access to published works.
