On Becoming a Certified Archivist

When I saw that the discussion was also for those who would like to be Certified Archivist, I thought-that might be helpful to me. Currently I am a reference librarian, but I also take care of the archives of the library. I have taken notes on the Northeast Document Conservation Center's online course, and gone to several classes on archival preservation. I obtained a grant to assess the library's archives from the National Endowment for the Humanities. I've kept humidity readings, flattened, repaired and re-housed documents. But I am not sure what to do next to become a certified archivist. Does anyone have any advice on this?

Thanks, Fawn

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Russell D. James on November 29, 2007 at 1:31am

Fawn,

Awesome that you want to be a CA. I just became one this year. I can tell you the reading list is long and you should do a few things:

1. Join the Archives & Archivists mailing list if you are not already on it.
2. Join an online study group where you can split up the reading list.
3. Register to take the exam by the May deadline date.
4. Take the exam.

The exam is hard, but it is worth it. I'm interviewing for jobs and when I got the CA designation, the number of interviews rose sharply compared to the 'Thank you for applying, but we don't want you" letters. I'm not sure if I can point out any advantages to your position other than the respect you'll get from administrators.

Russell

Permalink Reply by Fawn Murphy on December 5, 2007 at 12:23pm