How to Be Historian Archivist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 14, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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FAQ

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The invention of the printing press in the 15th century had a significant impact on the dissemination of knowledge. It enabled the production of books to become faster and cheaper, leading to a huge increase in literacy rates across Europe. This in turn led to a greater understanding of science and philosophy, as well as a better grasp on history.

Historians and archivists were able to use these new resources to document and preserve important events and artifacts from the past, creating an invaluable legacy for future generations. As a result, our understanding of the past and its influence on the present has become much more sophisticated.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a historian archivist, you will need to obtain a bachelor's degree in history, library science or archives management. Look for programs that offer coursework in history, library science, records management, and archival studies. You may also consider taking electives in other related fields, such as anthropology or political science.
Obtain an Advanced Degree. Many archivists have a master's degree in library science, archives management or history. A master's degree will give you the necessary skills to work as a historian archivist, including research methods, document preservation and records management.
Obtain Professional Experience. Once you have earned your degree, you may want to gain some professional experience working in an archive or library. This will give you a better understanding of the job and allow you to build up your skills as a historian archivist.
Become Certified. There are several organizations that offer certification for archivists and historians. Becoming certified demonstrates your expertise in the field and will make you more attractive to potential employers.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations is a great way to stay informed on new developments in the field and to connect with other professionals in the field. Consider joining organizations like the Society of American Archivists or the Association of Canadian Archivists.
Stay Up-to-Date. The field of history and archives is constantly changing and evolving. Make sure you stay up-to-date with new technologies and trends by regularly reading industry publications, attending conferences and participating in professional development activities.

The increasing demand for technologically savvy historians and archivists has necessitated the need for professionals in the field to stay ahead and remain competent. To achieve this, it is important for them to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies, as well as to gain additional skills such as data analysis, digital preservation, and content management. they should build their knowledge base by reading literature related to their field, attending professional development seminars, and taking advantage of online resources.

Through these activities, historians and archivists can increase their expertise, develop stronger research skills, and become more proficient in the use of digital tools. As a result, they can remain ahead of the curve in their field, as well as improve their competency in the ever-evolving world of digital archives and records management.

You may want to check Social Historian, Genealogical Historian, and Paleontological Historian for alternative.

Job Description

Research Historian: Conducts research and writes reports on historical topics related to an organization, culture, or event.
Archivist: Collects, organizes, preserves, and makes accessible records and other materials of historical significance.
Museum Curator: Manages collections of art, artifacts, and other materials within a museum or exhibit.
Museum Educator: Designs, develops, and delivers educational programs for museum visitors.
Records Manager: Manages and oversees the retention of records and archives in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Digital Preservation Specialist: Develops strategies and techniques for digitally preserving electronic records, documents, and other materials over time.
Public Historian: Uses a variety of methods to communicate historical information to the public through exhibitions, tours, public speaking engagements, and other vehicles.
Historical Consultant: Offers professional advice and expertise to clients on matters pertaining to history or historical research.
Historical Documentary Producer: Researches, writes, produces, and edits documentary films or videos about historical topics.
Historical Interpreter: Explains the history behind museums, archaeological sites, battlefields, and other historical locations to visitors.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of archival and records management principles, standards, and best practices
Knowledge of archival research methods and techniques
Knowledge of history and historical research methods
Ability to interpret and analyze historical documents
Ability to use archival software programs and databases
Ability to organize and manage complex projects
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively on projects
Strong organizational and time management skills
Creative problem-solving skills
Ability to work with diverse groups of people
Knowledge of copyright law and preservation techniques
Knowledge of archival standards such as DACS, EAD, and MARC

The most important skill to have for a Historian Archivist is the ability to research, analyze, and organize data. Researching requires an understanding of how to locate relevant materials, such as books, documents, photographs and other artifacts, as well as an ability to interpret and evaluate the information. Analyzing effectively involves using critical thinking skills to identify patterns, draw conclusions, and compare and contrast data.

Organizing and preserving the data is essential in order to create a reliable source of information. Having strong organizational skills is also important in order to properly arrange documents in chronological order and to label and store them in an efficient manner. The ability to use technology to access, store and share information can also be an asset in this profession.

With these skills, a Historian Archivist can ensure that important records are preserved for future generations.

Environmental Historian, Visual Historian, and Numismatist Historian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How have you applied your knowledge of historical records to your current role as an archivist?
What techniques have you used to preserve and store archival materials?
Describe a time when you successfully organized a historical collection.
How do you ensure accuracy when researching and writing historical documents?
What experience do you have working with primary source collections?
How would you prioritize tasks when managing a complex archival project?
How do you ensure that the historical records you manage are accessible to the public?
What strategies do you use to identify and index relevant historical materials?
How would you assess the preservation needs of a document or artifact collection?
What challenges have you faced in digitizing archival materials and how did you address them?

Common Tools in Industry

Content Management System (CMS) . Software used to store, organize and publish digital content, such as text, images, videos and audio (e. g. WordPress).
Access Database . A software used to store and manage large sets of data (e. g. Microsoft Access).
Image Editing Software . Software used to edit and manipulate digital images (e. g. Adobe Photoshop).
Digital Preservation Software . Software used to store, organize, and preserve digital content (e. g. Archivematica).
Data Analysis Software . Software used to analyze and interpret data (e. g. SPSS).
Digital Archiving Software . Software used to store, manage and preserve digital content over time (e. g. DSpace).
Reference Management Software . Software used to manage and organize references for bibliographies and other research materials (e. g. EndNote).
Scanning Software . Software used to scan physical documents and convert them into digital format (e. g. Epson Scan).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association
Society of American Archivists
American Association for State and Local History
National Council on Public History
Oral History Association
International Council on Archives
Association of Canadian Archivists
Academy of Certified Archivists
National Association of Government Archives and Records Administrators
National Coalition for History

We also have Diplomatic Historian, Historical Documentation Specialist, and Gender Historian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Primary Sources. Original documents or artifacts created during the time period being studied.
Secondary Sources. Material that was created later and provides an interpretation or analysis of primary sources.
Manuscripts. Handwritten documents that are often used as primary sources in research.
Archives. A collection of records and documents that are kept and maintained in an organized fashion.
Oral History. An account of past experiences that is acquired through interviews with people who have lived through a particular time period or event.
Cataloging. The process of organizing and describing materials for easy access and retrieval.
Preservation. Process of protecting and preserving documents and artifacts for future use.
Digitization. The process of converting physical documents and artifacts into digital formats for ease of access and preservation.
Collection Development. Process of selecting materials to be acquired, preserved, and accessed in an archives or library.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Historian Archivist?

Historian Archivists are responsible for preserving, organizing and providing access to important historical records and documents.

What types of documents do Historian Archivists manage?

Historian Archivists typically manage documents such as government records, business documents, manuscripts, photographs, artifacts and other artifacts related to history.

What does a Historian Archivist do on a daily basis?

A Historian Archivist's daily tasks may include researching historical records, cataloging documents and artifacts, preserving materials and providing access to the public.

What qualifications are required to become a Historian Archivist?

Historian Archivists usually require a master's degree in history, library science or archival studies. They must also have knowledge of archival principles, history and research methods.

How many documents do Historian Archivists typically manage?

The number of documents managed by a Historian Archivist can vary depending on the institution. Generally, Historian Archivists manage hundreds or even thousands of documents.

Web Resources

Historical Archivist Internship (Florida) - Non-Clinical Education ... college.mayo.edu
Richard & Mary Corrigan Solari University Archivist and Historian careers.uoregon.edu
Archives Center | National Museum of American History americanhistory.si.edu