Announcements

Strategies for How to Attract and Train the Best Volunteers
December 3, 2020 11:00 AM PST

Abstract: Whether you're from a big institution or a small organization, we all have relied upon volunteers to help get our work done. While hosting volunteers can be a mutually beneficial relationship, it's important to ensure the practice is operating ethically and not in a way that harms or devalues collection work. This webinar will outline how to construct an ethical and attractive volunteer program, review where and how to recruit awesome volunteers, suggest the best types of projects to consider for volunteers, and review the most effective ways to train volunteers on subjects ranging from archival theory to digital collections management. By the end of this webinar you'll have the strategy and tools you need to get back to your job, and have your volunteers operating confidently and with minimal hand-holding. Register: https://rachaelcristine.mykajabi.com/volunteers-registration-page

Ask Me Anything: Astoria Public Library's Historical Collections, presented by Rachael Woody and historian John Goodenberger. December 17, 2020 7:30 PM PST

Abstract: This is an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session where City of Astoria historian John Goodenberger and consulting archivist Rachael Woody team up to answer questions related to the history of Astoria and the treasure trove of historical artifacts found in the basement of the Astoria Public Library. This webinar was made possible thanks to the Astor Library Friends Association and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Register: https://rachaelcristine.mykajabi.com/ama-astoria-registration-page

January 7, 2021 11:00 AM PST

Abstract: Archivists and Museum Professionals have noticed a steady decline in the value they're being paid to do collection work. Even pre-COVID the availability of mid-career, well paying jobs (equivalent to professional work that requires a masters), and paying entry work were scarce. And now that COVID has happened the cultural heritage field is experiencing an economic collapse the likes of which we have never seen. So where does that leave us? How do we continue to protect the value of our work and advocate for our worth in the profession? And how can we translate that message into one that convincingly advocates for compensation that not only pays a living wage, but adequately matches the level of knowledge, skills, and experience required? Rachael Woody has studied the value of collection workers for several years, conducted a literature review and study in 2019, and is well versed in salary information and resources. This webinar will review what our collective value is, teach you how to calculate your own worth, and offer guidance on how to effectively advocate for yourself and your colleagues. Register: https://rachaelcristine.mykajabi.com/worth-registration-page

CMS 101: Searching, Procuring, and Implementing
January 21, 2021 11:00 AM PST

Abstract: A Collections Management System (CMS) is a long-term investment in staff time, collections care, and money. This means the CMS in place needs to be purposefully selected based off a vetted list of specifications that meet every user need. Once a CMS is selected, staff need to be prepared for the realities of what implementation and collections migration will entail. The process is long and often complicated due to the heavy technical and process knowledge required. To help collection workers through this process, this webinar will guide you through how to search for, select, buy, implement, migrate to, and maximize the value of the CMS. Each section will review the important elements of the process, will highlight areas you should be particularly aware of, and will offer tips to help you navigate the process successfully. Register: https://rachaelcristine.mykajabi.com/cms101-registration-page

Recordings are now available for:

Ask Me Anything: Grants Edition

Abstract: When you think of grant writing what comes to mind? For my clients it's usually a feeling of overwhelm as you juggle the need for grant money with the intense pressure to craft a winning grant proposal. And unfortunately 2020 has only increased the level of competition as every library, archives, and museum struggles to keep financially afloat. If ever there was a time to get good at grant writing--it's now. So what grant writing roadblocks are in between you and writing grants with confidence? Tell me what they are and let's get into it. Recording: https://youtu.be/DP61xHn8CVw

Breaking with Tradition: Creating Connections in the Archives with New Types of Access, presented by Rachael Cristine Woody with Bridgett Kathryn Pride.

Abstract: When the general public is introduced to the archives it's often an intimidating experience. Our ceremony of white gloves, use of expensive boxes, and enforcement of heavily restricted collections access all serve to intimidate and dissuade new users. Whether we intend to or not, archivists are sending the message that they are the gatekeepers of the collection and only "serious business" can be conducted with the collections. So, how do we break that messaging down? How can we serve up the collections in a way that is not only inviting, but inspirational? Rachael Woody is teaming up with Bridgett Kathryn Pride to talk about breaking down archival barriers, empowering novice users, and creating points of access to collections through artful guidance. Recording: https://youtu.be/VbrIbRDn7hU

Accessibility: Webinars are delivered via YouTube premiere and auto-captioning is provided live and with the recording. A link to the webinar recording is provided a day after the premiere to all who registered. Questions can be submitted ahead of time via a form on the registration page, emailed directly to me, or using the YouTube chat box during the premiere.

Questions can be sent to: consulting@rachaelcristine.com.