This class takes students beyond basic archival processing guidelines to address how to deal with specific types of items found in collections such as newspaper clippings and post-it notes. Attendees will take a more specific look at the description of items and folders. Both Encoded Archival Description (EAD) and Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS) will be explored more in-depth to help students create better finding aids.

Gain an overview of archival practice by learning how to work with collections, describe and organize archival materials, and create a basic finding aid. Understand how to assist patrons with archival requests. Implement basic workflows, processes, and procedures to make collection maintenance and archival work easier.

This course is an introduction to preserving library collections. It will cover the difference between preservation and conservation and will focus on budget friendly actions that can extend the life of your library collections. Basic collection housekeeping, risk management, appropriate storage and environment, as well as an introduction to emergency preparedness will be covered.

For libraries that collect and create digital objects, digital preservation is the elephant in the room. Digital objects are fragile and even libraries that are careful about backing up their collections must still hope for the best. This session identifies common threats to digital objects, explores Open Archival Information System (OAIS) basics, and offers practical solutions for preserving electronic collections. Learners will gain the confidence and skills to build a sustainable digital preservation program.