Archives Alive: Expanding Engagement with Public Library Archives and Special Collections / Edition 1

by Diantha Dow Schull

Overview

All too often the image of a public library archive is of a dusty collection of artifacts and documents occasionally exhumed for a neglected display case. But librarians and archivists across the country are turning that stereotype on its head, developing innovative ways to bring library users into new relationships with archival professionals and research collections. From social archives and citizen cartography to artist-curators and photovoice projects, special collections departments are demonstrating their value not only for preservation but also for outreach, education, and public service. In this book Schull canvasses the nation, showcasing exciting ideas that can be adapted for every public library. A must-have text for anyone with responsibilities for directing, managing or teaching archival services, as well as for those who are studying best practices and planning for change, this book Offers examples of more than 100 projects that reflect the scope and variety of emerging practices that foster public engagement, culled from conversations with dozens of the nation's leading public library archivists and special collections staff Profiles 13 institutions and departments that are in the forefront of change Analyzes trends in public programming, community documentation, and digital communications that are re-shaping the image, functions, content, and uses of public library archives and special collections Sharing models for institutions seeking to expand connections with public audiences, this unique survey demonstrates how to make archives come alive for libraries and their communities.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780838913352
Publisher:	American Library Association
Publication date:	06/16/2015
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	352
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x 0.74(d)

Editorial Reviews

11/01/2015
Library archives and special collections are no longer solely concerned with preservation; today's collections are being used by libraries in inventive ways. Public librarians are employing their special collections as a resource to develop exciting programs and projects in order to promote their institutions and to connect to their users. Museum and library consultant Schull (50 + Library Services) describes the efforts of these librarians by examining special collections programming at more than 100 U.S. public libraries. The author provides numerous examples, including art programs, oral history projects, educational outreach, and commemorative events. Furthermore, she explains how these programs have benefited libraries by making their collections more visible, by creating collaborative opportunities with other libraries and institutions, and by helping libraries to build relevancy. Moreover, these programs have proven valuable to library users in supplying learning and research opportunities, in assisting to encourage social interaction with other users, and in engaging the public in the collection development process. The examples throughout can be adapted by other libraries, and they may also inspire librarians to create their own special collections programming. VERDICT Recommended for special collections librarians, reference librarians, rare book librarians, library administrators, archivists, and library students.—Dave Pugl, Ela Area P. L., Lake Zurich, IL

Library Journal