To become an archivist, you must complete four steps: post-secondary education, related work experience, certification, and a job interview. An archivist is in charge of evaluating, organizing, preserving, and managing access to documents and materials with potential for long-term value. This material is usually historical or culturally significant, and the archivist has determined that it will be useful to future generations. Letters between important political figures or a set of correspondence between two parties during a fascinating period of history are examples of typical documents.
To work as an archivist, you must complete post-secondary training programs. Although there is no specific degree in archiving, the necessary skills are taught in library science, information studies, and museum studies graduate programs. Admission to this program is determined by a combination of grades from a bachelor’s degree program as well as a personal interview. For librarians who have completed their education, becoming an archivist is a popular choice.
Working as a researcher, librarian, digital librarian, or data management administrator are all examples of related work experience that can help you get an archivist job. Many information studies programs include an internship opportunity with a university or city archive archivist. Consult your program administrator for more information on your options.
A variety of archivist associations offer a variety of certification programs. The Academy of Certified Archivists® (ACA®) is the most well-known certification organization in the United States. To become certified, candidates must submit their work experience, academic credentials, and pass an examination. When applying for a job as an archivist with a government agency, certification by the ACA® is required, though it is not required by all employers.
Take the time to prepare for the job interview during the process. Make a list of common interview questions and prepare your responses ahead of time. Make use of the career services provided by your school’s career center. When applying to academic or government institutions, multiple panel interviews are frequently required. In this format, preparation is essential for success.
Because the archivist community is so small, reputation is crucial. Speak with your professors, volunteer to help with research projects, and assist where you can. Request that your professors inform you of any opportunities or positions that they may become aware of.
Large libraries, universities, colleges, museums, government libraries, and archives are all places where archivists can work. You may be eligible to participate in reciprocal agreements with other archives around the world as an archivist. International travel is combined with information sharing and the development of international standards in these programs.