The Society of American Archivists (SAA) is seeking volunteers to serve on the newly established AI Task Force (AITF). This group will play a central role in guiding the archival profession through the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for archival records, professional practice, and SAA as an organization.
About the Task Force
The AI Task Force is charged with helping SAA and the archival community at large navigate the ethical, technical, accessibility, and organizational impacts of AI technologies. Task Force members will collaborate with component groups, external partners, and communities represented in archival collections to ensure an informed, responsible, and values‑aligned approach to AI.
What the Task Force Will Do
Over a 24‑month term, members will help deliver key initiatives, including:
- A values statement to guide archival work and partnerships (within first 6 months)
- An AI resource page (within first 12 months), including:
- Core AI competencies for the profession
- Recommended training for archivists
- Best‑practice guidance for archival functions such as donor relations, description, access, reference, and metadata
- Recommendations for SAA's own use of AI (within first 18 months)
- Ongoing reporting, collaboration, and recommendations to SAA Council
Who Should Apply
SAA welcomes volunteers with a wide range of experience and expertise, including but not limited to:
- Ethical, legal, or accessibility considerations of AI
- Technical understanding of AI tools and data practices
- Community‑engaged or collections‑based work
- Organizational policy, professional development, or archival theory
- Experience addressing the impacts of emerging technologies on cultural heritage
- SAA member in good standing
We strongly encourage applicants from diverse professional backgrounds, communities, and perspectives.
Composition and Appointments
The Task Force will include:
- 2 Co‑Chairs
- 11 Members
- 1 Council Liaison
- 1 SAA Staff Liaison
Volunteers will serve two‑year terms (24 months). Members are appointed by the SAA Vice President/President-Elect.
How to Apply
The application form is open from March 20, 2026, and close on April 17, 2026.
For more information, please review the standing rules of the
SAA AI Task Force.