2005 Modern Archives Institute
January 24 - February 4, 2005
June 6 - June 17, 2005

Please note: Registration for 2005 Institutes begins on May 1, 2004.
(Payment may be deferred. See application form for details.)

Purpose

To introduce participants to archival theory and practice and the responsibilities of archival work.

Participants

Participants usually have limited archival experience and represent a wide variety of archival repositories, large and small, public and private. Priority is given to persons who work with archives or manuscripts. Managers whose organizations include archival units, persons from other professions who require a basic understanding of archival work, and those who are preparing for a career in archives and manuscripts will be admitted on a space-available basis.

Program

The 2-week program provides an introduction to archival principles and techniques for individuals who work with personal papers, as well as those who work with the records of public and private institutions and organizations. It is intended to help archivists acquire basic knowledge about caring for archival materials and making them available. The Institute concentrates on the following basic archival functions:

• Acquisition of archival material
  
• Appraisal and disposition
  
• Arrangement and description
  
• Preservation
  
• Reference and access
  
• Public programs

Other topics include the management of archival institutions; administration of special types of archival materials, such as photographs and electronic records; funding; and ethics. The program includes lectures, discussions, workshops, a full day of activities at the Library of Congress, and tours of various units of the National Archives and Records Administration. Continuing education units are offered. Participants will receive several archival publications as well as other materials.

Cost of the Institute

The fee is $675. This includes publications and instructional materials. Transportation, room, and board are not included. Payment is required before participants can be considered enrolled. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis for persons currently working in archives or manuscripts.

Learn about Scholarship opportunities.

Accommodations

Participants are responsible for securing their own accommodations. Lodging information will be provided on request.

Location and Schedule

During 2005, most sessions will take place at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC. We expect to spend two days at the National Archives Building in College Park, Maryland. The Institute will also meet at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC, on one of the days. Classes will be held Monday through Friday of the two weeks. There are no evening sessions. The Institute will end at noon on the last day.

Information and Registration

You can print out the Application for Enrollment and mail or fax it (see below).

For further information, we may be reached at:

phone: 202-501-5390, ext. 279
fax: 202-208-1903
e-mail: mary.rephlo@nara.gov