It’s time for the fifth challenge as part of “The Year of Living Dangerously for Archives!”
We recently heard from many of you about why you’re an archivist and what you love about archives. The results were inspiring. You get it, you know what we do matters, as evidence by literally hundreds of statements, many very heartfelt and compelling. Words and phrases emerged like “making people more compassionate and self-aware”, “fighting for the continued existence and better sharing of stories”, facilitating relationships across time”, “solving mysteries”, “memory, accountability, identity and culture”, “supporting democracy, knowledge and innovation”, “defending the rights of people.” Many, many more words and statements were offered that demonstrate how many of us are truly dedicated to and passionate about our profession.
But we’re not the only ones who understand the value of archives and the work of archivists. We truly do have strong, energetic supporters of all kinds—from journalists to genealogists, students to stakeholders, there are people who can and do say wonderful things about the value of archives. So this month, ask your supporters why they “love” archives.
We encourage you to seek input, comments, or testimonials on why archives matter to others. We can use comments like these when we are promoting our programs to our managers, resource allocators, legislators, and even the public.
On the SAA website, you’ll find some specific ideas for how you might go about gathering this information. http://www2.archivists.org/living-dangerously/why-people-love-archives or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/archivists/posts/10152850070938381
Responses can be detailed, or short and sweet. Can you take it a step further and get a photo of the individual? A video-tape of the person that demonstrates their energy and passion for archives? Anyone up for rapping about the value of archives? Our users are creative, and so are you—so please help us to bring together “words of love” about why people value archives!
Off the Record 