Archives Aide

Archives Aide volunteers support River Raisin National Battlefield Park by helping maintain an organized and research-ready archival environment. Their work will ensure materials are accessible to staff and researchers. The primary tasks of an Archives Aide volunteer include assisting with basic processing, re-housing, cataloging, and digitization of archival materials. Volunteers may also help with other projects, such as preparation of archival materials for use in the Reading Room or creating finding aids.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

1. Processing & Preservation

·        Housing & Storage: Place historical papers, letters, and photographs into acid-free folders and archival-quality boxes to ensure long-term preservation.

·        Environmental Monitoring: Help track climate-control logs (temperature and humidity) within the repository to ensure optimal preservation conditions.

2. Cataloging & Digitization

·        Data Entry: Enter descriptive information about collection items (dates, authors, subjects, and conditions) into the park’s collection management database or spreadsheet tracking logs.

·        Scanning & Photography: Digitally scan photographs, letters, maps, and diaries using flatbed or overhead scanners to create high-quality digital surrogates for public and research use.

Transcription: Transcribe handwritten 19th-century letters, military logs, or oral history ·        audio recordings into clean, searchable typed text files.

3. Collection Organization & Maintenance

·        Shelving & Inventory: File processed archival boxes and volumes into their designated locations on high-density shelving units. Conduct periodic inventory checks to ensure all items are in their proper place.

·        Labeling: Create and apply legible, archival-safe labels to folders, boxes, and storage sleeves according to established institutional naming conventions.

4. Research & Reference Support (Optional / Advanced)

·        Research Requests: Assist staff by pulling requested files or boxes from the stacks to help answer public reference inquiries or internal park research needs.

·        Exhibit Support: Help identify and gather specific documents, photos, or maps for upcoming park museum displays, educational programs, or digital media projects.