For those new to research in archives, those who only occasionally use archives, and others who would benefit from having expectations managed to get the best out of archives, take a look at this article from the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives on
HOW CAN YOU HELP AN ARCHIVIST TO HELP YOU? REFERENCE SERVICE FROM OUR SIDE OF THE DESK
That's very good John. One thing I do regularly is thank an archivist who did something which just delights me is make a small donation to the Archive. I have also sent praising letters to the boss of any librarian or archivist who digs up very helpful documents.
ReplyDeleteFor example, I was aided last week by the excellent Archivist of the Ottawa Anglican Diocese, Dr Glenn Lockwood, who was able to tell me the place and date of my grandmother's second late marriage after my grandfather had passed away. His office will receive a small cheque this week.
When about 6 years ago I set out to find if there was any archived information about my great grandmother and her small children having been sent to Canada in 1919 as charity cases by the Salvation Army, I was tickled pink to receive copies of many documents from their archive in Scarborough. I called them when I received them, delighted to realize that the Sally Ann had kept an eye on the family for about 5 years, making sure the kids went to school and stayed fed. The Archivist said he was delighted to hear from me, as most often they just sent off documents when requested, never knowing if people were happy with them or even pleased with the results. I also then sent a small donation cheque. Cheers, BT
Superb reference. As a former arcchivist/reference librarian, I applaud this article. Spot on. I shall forward to many former colleagues and friends.
ReplyDeleteThanks, John
Gail B in St. C.