Lone Arranger/Solo Archivist Basics

4-Week Course Starts May 03, 2021

Course Description

Being a lone arranger (aka a solo archivist) is a job like no other. This course will help you understand how to operate an archive on your own as well as overcome the unique situations faced by solo archivists including creating policies, processing collections, disaster management, and budgeting.


Learning Objectives

By the end of this course participants should be able to:

  • Design policies that work for your archive
  • Recall the best methods for processing an archive with a small staff
  • Identify priorities when dealing with a small budget
  • Understand how to advocate for your archive


Your Instructor


Samantha Lawrence
Samantha Lawrence

Samantha Lawrence is the archivist at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. As the solo archivist, she manages the Museum’s archives, coordinates preservation projects, conducts research, and develops outreach opportunities. Samantha has also worked with several other organizations in Southeast Michigan to digitize archival material, create exhibits and make local history material accessible online. She received a Master of Library and Information Science with a Graduate Certificate in Archival Administration from Wayne State University in 2016.


Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
This course starts on May 03, 2021.
It is an asynchronous online course designed to be completed in 4 weeks.
Participants will spend approximately 2 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, April 30th
Will the instructor be available for feedback and questions?
Absolutely! Your instructor will provide feedback for each assignment and will be available via email for any questions you may have. A discussion area is also available where participants can post questions.
How long do I have access to the course materials?
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:
1. View all lectures
2. Answer all quizzes
3. Complete all assignments
When you complete these three items you can expect to receive you 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 would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 14 days and we will give you a full refund.

Course enrollment opening soon.