Archives Basics: Where to Start in an Archival Collection

Archives Basics is designed for anyone who finds themselves responsible for an archive and does not know where to begin. This recorded webinar is for people who are new to archival work, have inherited an archive without documentation, or have stepped into a collections space where systems are unclear or nonexistent. It is also a useful refresher for those who have some experience but want to return to fundamentals. We walk through what to look for when you first encounter an archive, how to assess what you are working with, and what actions matter most at the beginning. Topics include understanding what you have, identifying risks and priorities, recognizing common problems left by previous staff, and setting a practical foundation before jumping into software, digitization, or reorganization. No prior archival training is required. This webinar is especially helpful for librarians, museum staff, administrative staff, historians, volunteers, or anyone who has suddenly become “the archivist” as part of their role. Whether you are starting from scratch or trying to make sense of inherited decisions, this session focuses on clarity, triage, and realistic first steps. #Archives #Archivists #ArchivesManagement #LibraryAndArchives #MuseumWork