Should I be an archivist?

Do you like to collect things? YES!

Do you love history? YES!

You may be able to turn that hobby into a career as a professional archivist.

Archivist keep records to preserve reliable memories of the past.

An archive can contain multiple collections of related materials.

When building a collection, archivists:

• Find materials that could belong in the collection

• Determine value the materials will add to the collection

• Organize records to be able to find information quickly when needed

Illustration by Freepik Storyset

Collections are not limited to physical archives. Digital archiving provides even more opportunities to preserve the past.

• Gather, organize, and classify information and materials to archive

• Research origin and historical significance of materials

• Prepare records to document and allow easy access to information

• Develop policies and procedures for public access of records

• Assist others in finding and understanding archival records

Are archivist known by other titles?

Great question! Archivists may work with librarians, museum curators, and other related fields. They may even do similar tasks. But these are all very different jobs.

Archivist keep records in a variety of forms, including:

• Letters

• Diaries

• Logs

• Personal documents

• Government documents

• Sound recordings

• Videos

• Digital files

• Physical objects

Archivists need to be detail orientated and enjoy:

• History

• Research

• Writing

• Active listing

• Critical thinking

• Problem solving

• Technology

Archivists can find work in many different industries, including:

• Government

• Universities

• Banks

• Museums

• Corporations

  ...and many more!

Most archivists have advanced degrees and certifications in their chosen field.

The average yearly salary in the U.S. is $55,560 USD.  

The average yearly salary in Canada is $49,359 CAD.  

Does this sound interesting?