#AskAnArchivist Day is Oct. 5

Author: 

Kara Evans Flinn
Joanna Marsh
Kate Hill

What is an archivist?

What do archivists do?

And what exactly are the Missouri Valley Special Collections?

If you have ever pondered these questions, now is your chance to #AskAnArchivist!

Archivists turn this:

unprocessed boxes

Into this:

processed archival collection

And turn this:

unprocessed archival collection

Into this:

processed archival collection

What is #AskAnArchivist Day?

It is an opportunity for the public to ask about the what, how, and why of being an archivist in the Missouri Valley Special Collections, as well as any questions about visiting the room or doing research using our local history resources. It also provides us with a valuable opportunity to hear about your interests and discover new ways to serve our patrons.

How does it work?

On October 5th, as part of American Archives Month, archivists around the country will take to social media to respond to questions tweeted with the hashtag #AskAnArchivist. If you are interested in participating, please send us your questions on Facebook and Twitter on October 5th by including the #AskAnArchivist hashtag and tagging @KCLibrary.

Not sure what to ask? Here are some examples to help with the brainstorming:

  • How do I take care of my old family photos?
  • I drive by this old building every day at [address] and have always wondered about it. What did it used to be?
  • How do I research the history of my house?
  • My grandmother went to high school in Kansas City in the 1920s. Do you have her yearbook?
  • What’s the strangest item in Missouri Valley Special Collections?
  • How does someone become an archivist?
  • What’s the deal with all those gray boxes in the photos?