Intro to Archives

6-Week Course Starts APR 03, 2023

Course Description:

What are archives, and how is caring for them different from library or museum work? What does it mean to be an archivist? This course provides an overview of sound archival practices and the long-term care of permanent records. Participants will learn how to determine what records should be retained, how to organize them, and how to connect preservation efforts to the processing and storage of collections. The course will address basic physical processing of archival collections, including identifying, arranging, and storing materials, as well as creating tools for access and the importance of maintaining intellectual control.


"This course did a wonderful job at providing an introduction to handling archives. Perfect balance of hands on practical issues and the theory behind what is considered best practice today. "

- Eveline Ferretti, Public Program and Communication Administrator, Ithaca, NY

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the role of the archivist
  • Understand core archival principles and practices: collection development, appraisal, arrangement and description, legal/ethical issues, and access
  • Learn methodologies for organizing records
  • Identify actions that will prevent and slow down deterioration of records and learn to spot problems
  • Create access tools such as finding aids and inventories to help your users locate what they need


Total Course Hours: 15 Hours/ 1.5 CEUs

"It was worth the money and time spent in the class. I loved the pace and how she provided a guided notes handout. I printed out all the articles because they were so knowledgeable and relevant to the field and the roles of archivist. I have a wealth of resources to use while I tackle my new archival project."

- Jasmine Wilkins Reference Librarian Eustis/FL

Your Instructor


Kelly Kress
Kelly Kress

Kelly Kress is an archivist with over fifteen years of experience working with personal papers and institutional records. Currently, she is Accessioning Archivist at the Huntington Library in San Marino, CA. As an independent consultant, she has assisted both individuals and institutions. For three years she was the Assistant Archivist at the Los Angeles Philharmonic, where she was responsible for the majority of archival processing. Previously, Kelly worked as Processing Archivist at UCLA Library Special Collections, Senior Project Archivist at the Newberry, and Archives Assistant in the Southern Folklife Collection at UNC-Chapel Hill. She holds a Master of Arts in Public History with an Archives concentration from North Carolina State University. She is an active member of the Society of American Archivists Performing Arts Section, and volunteers with the Los Angeles Archivists Collective.


"This course covered a lot of information in a short time period and included thought provoking material to read and discuss. Highly recommend for those interested in archival science."

- Beth Kelly, Music Cataloger Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
This course starts on APR 03, 2023.
It is an asynchronous online course designed to be completed in 6 weeks.
Participants will spend approximately 2.5 hours each week on viewing lectures, answering quizzes and completing discussion, reading, and written assignments.
It is recommended that you complete each week's work within that week to stay in sync with other learners.
When is the last day for enrollment?
Friday, MAR 31st
Will the instructor be available for feedback and questions?
Absolutely! Your instructor will provide feedback for each assignment and will be available via email or phone for any questions you may have. A discussion forum is also available where participants can post questions.
How long do I have access to the course material?
You will have unlimited access for 3 months from the start date of this course.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion?
In order to receive a Certificate of Completion you must complete the following each week:

1. View all video lectures

2. Answer all quizzes

3. Complete all assignments

When you complete these three items you can expect to receive your certificate within 2 weeks.
I am having trouble enrolling. Help!
We're sorry to hear this. Here are some options:
1. Try enrolling with a different browser or with a different device (laptop, tablet, smart phone, etc.)
2. Email us at [email protected] for an invoice. This will be emailed to you and you can pay through the link provided in the invoice.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We offer a 14-day refund (from the day the course starts) on all asynchronous courses. Send your refund request to [email protected]

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