Margot Note is a successful American certified archivist, a certified records manager, an information governance professional, and a project management professional based in New York. She has rich academic exposure and experience in librarianship, archives and history. She is passionate about preserving the past and has over 25 years of experience in information domain in the national and international sectors.
Margot has taught in the graduate programmes in the American colleges and universities and has authored nine books, including Creating Family Archives: A Step‐by‐Step Guide for Saving Your Memories for Future Generations, Project Management for Information Professionals, and Managing Image Collections: A Practical Guide. Margot’s interviews are featured in the New York Times. Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post. (Read more) She owns Margot Note Consulting LLC that offers information strategy and archives management services.
In this interview with Santosh C Hulagabali, Margot shares her insights and experiences in the field of archiving. She highlights several key trends shaping the archival profession today. She emphasises that community-centered archiving is expanding the role of archivists. She also throws lights on AI and machine learning which are revolutionising automation and accessibility in archives, making it easier for diverse communities to access information. She points out that the growing availability of digital archives heightens public awareness of archival resources. However, she stresses on the ongoing need to enhance archival literacy. Additionally, she highlights the often-overlooked labor involved in preserving and processing collections. She also shares her impression about the role of librarians in the archival domain and offers advice for those who wish to enter the archival field.
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• Can you please share the recent trends and developments in the archival domain and archival practices that you think are particularly exciting and promising, especially in the context of the U.S.A.?
Recent trends in archival practices are introducing innovative approaches to the field, addressing the evolving needs for preservation, access, and inclusivity. Digital preservation and the management of born-digital archives have become critical as archives respond to the explosion of digital records. Tools like LOCKSS (Lots of Copies Keep Stuff Safe) and emulation technology ensure long-term access to digital content susceptible to obsolescence. The importance of born-digital archives, such as email collections, social media, and websites, is also gaining recognition as essential to documenting modern history.
Community-centered archiving another emerging trend that is expanding the role of archivists. Institutions increasingly collaborate with underrepresented communities to preserve their histories and voices on their terms. This shift toward participatory archives is exemplified by projects like Documenting the Now, which focuses on archiving social justice movements, reflecting the trend of co-creating archives with the communities involved.
Decolonizing archives has become a growing movement within the field, aiming to address biases inherent in traditional collections and methodologies. Archivists are reassessing how materials from marginalised groups have been collected, described, and accessed. Efforts include revising archival language, returning cultural heritage materials, and adopting more inclusive acquisition practices to ensure a more equitable representation in archives.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are revolutionising archival work by enhancing automation and accessibility. Machine learning tools facilitate the processing vast collections, allowing for faster identification, sorting, and description of archival materials. AI is also improving discoverability through automated transcription and metadata generation, particularly for handwritten and audiovisual records, making it easier for users to find what they need.
Sustainability is increasingly a priority in archival practices, with institutions addressing the ecological impact of traditional archival storage and digitisation processes. There is a growing interest in sustainable preservation methods, including optimising environmental controls in storage spaces and exploring eco-friendly materials for physical conservation.
Lastly, there is a stronger emphasis on archival advocacy and transparency. Archivists highlight archives’ societal value, lobbying for increased funding and support. At the same time, institutions are adopting policies that promote open access, making collections more available online to improve public engagement and accountability. Together, these trends represent a dynamic shift toward technology, inclusivity, and sustainability, offering promising directions for the future of the field.
• Do you agree that there is an increased awareness about archives– especially among the academic and research communities, maybe due to the archival information accessible on different platforms? In general, how to further improve ‘archive literacy,’ especially among the general public?
Yes, there is a growing awareness of archives. Scholars, historians, and journalists are recognising the vital role archival records play in research, storytelling, and providing context for contemporary issues. Archives are used more frequently in documentaries, books, and digital history projects, making their value more evident to the public. A key factor behind this increased awareness is the accessibility of digital archives. As more institutions digitise their collections, it becomes easier for researchers to access materials online, expanding interest and access. This development, in turn, has fuelled the exploration of previously overlooked topics. In academia, archival research has become essential across various disciplines, from history to sociology to cultural studies, as scholars discover the unique insights that archives offer into the past and the present.
While awareness of archives is on the rise, there is still a need to improve archival literacy—the ability to effectively locate, understand, and use archival materials. One way to increase archival literacy is through education and public programming. Archivists can offer workshops, talks, and webinars to teach people how to navigate archives. Libraries and community centers serve as excellent venues for these programmes, where participants can learn to search for finding aids, interpret archival materials, and understand the broader context of collections. Additionally, partnerships with schools to integrate archival literacy into curricula can foster early engagement and help younger generations develop these skills.
As digital archives grow, making them user-friendly and accessible is crucial. Enhancing search functions, creating interactive tutorials, and designing engaging digital exhibits can help users explore collections online more comfortably. A welcoming and intuitive digital experience is key to encouraging those unfamiliar with archives to explore them further.
Another strategy is telling stories through archives. Media increasingly uses archival materials to tell compelling stories in documentaries, podcasts, and social media posts featuring historical footage or records, demonstrating how archives can bring the past to life.
Collaborating with creators and educators is another effective approach. Archivists can collaborate with filmmakers, artists, and writers to incorporate archival materials into creative works, creating a tangible connection between archives and everyday life. When old records appear in documentaries, films, or novels, it demonstrates their relevance. Similarly, partnering with educators to incorporate archival literacy into history and research courses can help students develop a deeper understanding of archives early on.
Highlighting digital projects is also important in increasing the visibility of archives. Digital archival projects, such as digitised newspapers or photograph collections, have gained popularity and should be promoted more widely in academic and public spheres. Platforms like Google Arts & Culture have helped bring archival materials to a global audience, fostering broader interest in archival research. Engaging with social media can also make archives more relevant to current events and popular culture. Archivists can share interesting finds, post historical photos, and create interactive content that connects archives to contemporary life. Archivists can reach new audiences and make archives more approachable using platforms like Instagram or TikTok.
One often overlooked aspect of archival work is the labor that goes into preserving, processing, and making collections accessible. Archival labor is invisible to the public, which can lead to a lack of appreciation for the expertise and effort involved. Archivists can address this by sharing more about their behind-the-scenes work through blog posts, tours, or public talks about organising and preserving a collection. By highlighting the meticulous and skilled work that goes into maintaining archives, archivists can help the public understand that archives do not just happen—they result from careful labor by professionals.
• What are some common misconceptions people have about archives, and how can archivists work to address them?
One misperception is that archives are places filled with dusty old documents. While many think of archives as housing only historical papers, modern archives hold many materials, including digital files, audio recordings, videos, and photographs. Archivists can shift this narrative by highlighting contemporary collections and explaining that what they preserve today will be tomorrow’s history.
Another misconception is that archives are difficult to access unless you are a scholar. In reality, many archives are open to the public, and archivists work hard to make their collections accessible. Public programs, workshops, and online platforms help archivists show that archives are for everyone, not just academics.
There is also a belief that archivists are gatekeepers, controlling what people can or cannot see. In truth, archivists serve as stewards, following laws and ethical guidelines to balance preservation with public access. By being transparent about managing collections, archivists can clear up this misunderstanding.
A widespread assumption is that all materials within an archives are digitised and searchable online. However, digitisation is costly and time-consuming, meaning many materials are available only in their original formats. Archivists can explain the complexities of digitisation and emphasise the importance of physical archives while showcasing their ongoing digital projects.
Many people also believe anyone can do archival work, assuming it is just filing papers. This perception overlooks the specialised training and expertise required to be an archivist, which includes understanding archival theory, legal issues, and preservation techniques. Archivists can highlight their professional qualifications to demonstrate that their work is a skilled profession, not a hobby.
Yet another misperception is that archives are static, unchanging spaces. Archives evolve as new collections are added, information is updated, and technology advances. Archivists regularly respond to current events and trends, ensuring that archives remain relevant. They can emphasise this by showcasing how their collections grow and change.
• There is an exponential growth of digital content in various forms in a couple of years, notably post COVID pandemic period. What different approach is needed to preserve the born digital content in general– that includes text, images, audios, videos, etc.? How different is this approach from the physical documents?
Digital preservation refers to ensuring that digital materials remain accessible, usable, and authentic over time, which applies to both born-digital content and digitised materials. The goal is to protect these digital records from obsolescence, corruption, or loss due to technological changes or the degradation of storage media. Unlike traditional physical preservation, digital preservation addresses the distinct vulnerabilities of digital files and the technologies they depend on.
One significant difference between physical and digital preservation is the longevity of media. Traditional preservation focuses on maintaining the physical integrity of materials such as paper, film, or photographs, where environmental factors like temperature and humidity cause deterioration. With proper care, physical items can last for centuries. In contrast, digital media are far more susceptible to obsolescence and decay. Storage devices such as hard drives and CDs have a limited lifespan and require regular replacement or migration to newer formats to prevent data loss. Even with proper care, digital files can become corrupted or unreadable if the software or hardware needed to access them becomes obsolete.
Another key distinction is the dependency on technology. While preserving physical items typically involves maintaining the object with minimal technological support, digital preservation relies heavily on hardware and software. Accessing digital files requires computers, servers, and sometimes emulation tools to run outdated programs. As technology advances, archivists must constantly update, migrate, or find ways to preserve access to older digital files. This need makes digital preservation a more complex process than the long-term storage of physical objects.
Digital preservation also requires more active management than physical preservation. Once physical items are stabilised and stored in appropriate conditions, they can remain undisturbed for long periods. However, digital materials need ongoing monitoring. Archivists must regularly check file integrity, convert outdated formats, and guard against corruption. Practices such as format migration and bit-level preservation are essential for long-term access to digital materials.
The risk of obsolescence is also a more significant concern in digital preservation. While physical objects can be accessed as long as they remain intact, digital files may become unreadable if the hardware or software required to access them becomes outdated. A file format or storage medium may become obsolete in just a few years. Maintaining compatibility with evolving technologies is an ongoing challenge for preservationists, who must constantly adapt to changes in the digital landscape.
Despite these challenges, digital preservation offers advantages, such as the ease of creating duplicates and backups. Physical objects, especially rare or unique ones, are difficult and costly to replicate, making them vulnerable to loss or damage. In contrast, digital files can be copied and stored in multiple locations, increasing their chances of survival. However, this benefit also brings the challenge of managing multiple copies over time, ensuring that all versions remain authentic and unaltered.
Ensuring the integrity and authenticity of digital files is more complicated than physical objects. While their traits and provenance can often confirm the authenticity of physical items, digital files are easily altered. Without proper metadata or tracking systems, it can be difficult to ensure the authenticity of a digital file. Therefore, digital preservation must include systems that track changes, manage file versions, and preserve metadata to maintain authenticity and prevent unauthorised modifications.
• You have written extensively on family archives. I think it is still considered as a private practice or a need-based practice? But in the archival domain, how and why is it equally important among the other mainstream genres of archiving?
I have written about family archives, including my book Creating Family Archives: A Step-by-Step Guide to Saving Your Memories for Future Generations because personal archives are just as crucial as institutional or organisational archives. Family or personal archives document the everyday lives of individuals and families, providing unique and intimate insights into historical events, social movements, and cultural shifts from the perspectives of people often overlooked in official records. By preserving these materials, individuals ensure that the personal stories behind larger historical narratives are not lost.
Personal archives serve as an essential form of legacy. When people create family archives, they preserve their heritage for future generations, ensuring their stories, experiences, and contributions remain accessible. This form of archiving highlights the value of ordinary lives. It provides a broader, more inclusive view of history, giving voice to those not represented in traditional archives. Making archives personal is also a powerful way to educate the public about the importance of preservation.
By encouraging individuals to organise and preserve their records, people become more invested in the process and develop a greater appreciation for the value of archives. Personal archiving projects can spark public interest in the larger field of archival work, illustrating that grand events do not solely define history but also encompass the stories we live daily. This work bridges professionals and the public, transforming archiving into something accessible and meaningful for everyone.
• How do archivists view application of AI in archival practice? What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI for the tasks such as digitisation, cataloging, retrieval, dissemination, etc.?
Archivists approach AI cautiously, recognising its potential to enhance archival work while remaining mindful of its challenges. AI can improve efficiency in archival processes; however, concerns about accuracy, ethics, and over-reliance on technology persist. As a result, many archivists are exploring how to implement AI responsibly in their field.
One of the primary advantages of AI in archival work is its ability to automate tedious tasks, such as metadata generation, cataloging, and transcribing. By leveraging AI tools like natural language processing and machine learning, archivists can process large volumes of data more efficiently, which is especially beneficial when dealing with extensive digital archives that would otherwise take years to manage manually. AI can also enhance search and discovery within collections, making it easier for researchers to locate relevant materials through intelligent indexing and pattern recognition.
Moreover, AI holds promise for digitisation and preservation efforts. It can assist in scanning and recognising text in physical materials and monitoring the condition of fragile collections through image analysis. Additionally, AI can improve accessibility by generating transcriptions, captions, and translations for audiovisual content, ensuring that archival materials are available to a broader audience. However, significant concerns are associated with AI in archival practice. One major ethical issue is the potential for bias in AI algorithms. Because AI systems are trained on existing data, if that data reflects historical biases or omissions, the AI could perpetuate those inequalities, leading to misclassification or exclusion of marginalised voices in archival records and undermining the inclusiveness and fairness of archival practices.
Furthermore, while AI excels at pattern recognition, it lacks the contextual understanding and critical thinking that human archivists bring to decision-making processes. Archivists make nuanced judgments about how records should be described and categorised—an area where AI may struggle to replicate human accuracy. Another risk is the possibility of over-reliance on AI technology. Although AI can assist with many tasks, there is concern that its increased use could devalue the expertise and judgment of archivists. Human intuition and ethical decision-making remain essential in archival work, and AI should be viewed as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human archivists. Additionally, AI requires large datasets to function effectively, raising concerns about privacy and security. Archivists must ensure that AI systems respect donor privacy and comply with data protection laws, especially when handling sensitive information.
Adopting AI technology can be resource-intensive, making it challenging for smaller archives or institutions with limited budgets to implement AI systems. This factor could potentially widen the gap between well-funded and under-resourced programs.
While AI presents opportunities to enhance archival workflows, its success hinges on careful implementation and ongoing oversight. When used thoughtfully, AI can serve as a powerful tool that complements the skills and knowledge of professional archivists, provided it is implemented with care to avoid unintended consequences.
• How is AI currently being used in the field of archives, and what are some key examples or projects or initiatives of AI applications in archival work?
AI is increasingly integrated into archival practices, enhancing various aspects of archiving, from processing and organising collections to improving access and discovery. Current uses of AI in archives include automated metadata generation, optical character recognition (OCR), image recognition and classification, data analysis, and enhanced search functionality. One of the primary applications of AI is automated metadata generation. AI tools that utilize natural language processing (NLP) can analyze digital content to automatically create metadata, significantly reducing the time archivists spend on manual description while enhancing discoverability. This capability allows for identifying keywords, subjects, and even document summaries, making collections more accessible.
Additionally, AI-driven OCR technologies are being employed to digitise and transcribe physical documents, enabling archivists to convert printed or handwritten text into machine-readable formats. This technology is particularly valuable for processing historical documents, making them searchable and readily available.
AI also plays a significant role in image recognition and classification. By analysing images and recognising patterns, objects, or faces, AI helps catalog visual materials efficiently. This application is beneficial in large photograph collections, where manual tagging would be impractical. Furthermore, AI can analyse large datasets to uncover trends or patterns that are not easily visible through manual review, providing deeper insights into archival collections and informing research strategies.
Stanford’s Center for Interdisciplinary Digital Research has developed AI-driven tools to explore its digital archives more effectively. One tool employs machine learning to detect patterns and connections across vast collections, making archival material more accessible to researchers by automatically classifying and tagging content based on themes and topics.
Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum Library uses AI to manage its environmental data archives. The archives can handle the large datasets accompanying botanical and environmental records by leveraging AI technologies for data processing and pattern recognition. AI algorithms identify trends in plant species and environmental conditions recorded in the archives, enhancing their use for climate research.
Yale’s Fortunoff Video Archive for Holocaust Testimonies uses AI-powered transcription and facial recognition to process and catalog its video testimonies. The project employs AI to transcribe hours of testimonies, identify speakers, and connect related testimonies, facilitating more efficient access to and analysis of these valuable resources.
At the University of Michigan Library, AI tools are integrated into their Deep Blue Repositories to enhance content discovery. AI is used to perform natural language processing (NLP) on the repository’s metadata, improving search functionality and allowing researchers to discover patterns and relationships in archived content that were previously hidden.
While these examples highlight the use of AI in large, well-funded, and well-staffed institutions, I am interested in exploring how small to mid-sized archives integrate AI into their operations and projects and how it will increasingly assist with quotidian tasks.
• What are the ‘ethical considerations’ and ‘IPR considerations’ that one should take into account while integrating or using AI technologies into archival practices?
Integrating AI into archival practice brings ethical considerations and intellectual property rights issues to the forefront. Addressing these factors is critical to ensuring that AI is used responsibly while respecting the rights of individuals and communities. One of the primary ethical considerations is bias and fairness. AI algorithms can perpetuate existing biases in the data they are trained on, leading to skewed results that reinforce stereotypes or exclude marginalised voices in archival descriptions and access. Therefore, archivists must critically assess the training data and consider the implications of using AI, ensuring that diverse perspectives are included and that outcomes are fair and equitable.
Privacy and confidentiality represent another significant concern, as archives often contain sensitive information about individuals or communities. Archivists must implement measures to anonymise data and comply with data protection regulations when employing AI, particularly in processing personal data. Ensuring privacy is paramount, as it protects the rights of those represented in the archives.
Transparency is also essential in AI applications. The processes involved in AI decision-making can be opaque, making it challenging for archivists and users to understand how outcomes are derived. Promoting transparency is crucial; archivists should be clear about how AI is used, the data it relies on, and the limitations of its capabilities. Moreover, accountability is vital since AI systems can make autonomous decisions. Establishing accountability for the outcomes of these decisions is necessary, particularly if they lead to adverse effects, such as misclassifying sensitive materials or failing to protect marginalised voices.
While AI can enhance efficiency, it is important to remember that human expertise remains vital in archival work. AI should serve as a tool to augment archivists’ capabilities rather than replace human judgment, thus maintaining a balance between automation and human oversight.
Intellectual property rights considerations also play a critical role in using AI in archival practice. Copyright issues can complicate using archival materials, as many may be subject to copyright protections. Archivists must understand the copyright status of the materials they work with and ensure that AI applications comply with copyright laws, especially when reproducing or distributing digital content. Furthermore, questions about attribution arise when AI tools generate metadata or content. It is essential to consider how to credit both the creators of the original materials and the developers of the AI technologies employed, as establishing guidelines for attribution helps maintain academic integrity and respect for intellectual contributions.
Licensing and permissions are also important, mainly if proprietary algorithms or data are involved. Archivists should ensure they have the appropriate licenses for any software, datasets, or AI tools they employ. Additionally, AI-generated outputs, such as transcriptions or annotations, may create derivative works that require further copyright considerations. Archivists should evaluate whether AI-generated materials can be shared publicly and under what conditions, especially if they build upon copyrighted content.
Lastly, the growing trend toward open access in archives raises questions about how AI can support or hinder this movement. While AI can enhance accessibility, it may also create barriers if proprietary tools are used that limit public access to information. Archivists must balance the benefits of AI with their commitment to open access and equitable information sharing.
How do you foresee the future of archives evolving, particularly in relation to the rapid changing trends in technology, societal needs, and historical scholarship?
The future of archives is poised for significant evolution, particularly in response to rapidly changing technology, shifting societal needs, and the dynamics of historical scholarship. For instance, archivists will increasingly adopt digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline workflows as technology advances. One example is the use of AI to automate the processing of large collections. Projects like the Smithsonian’s Transcription Center leverage crowdsourcing and AI to transcribe handwritten documents, making them more accessible to researchers and the public. This integration enhances efficiency and allows archivists to focus on more complex tasks, improving the accessibility of archival materials.
Regarding societal needs, archives will be critical in documenting diverse narratives and underrepresented voices. As discussions around equity, diversity, and inclusion become more pronounced, archivists will prioritise acquiring materials that reflect a wide range of human experiences. This evolution will also involve engaging with communities to ensure that archival practices are culturally sensitive and responsive to their needs.
Historical scholarship is set to transform as digital tools change how researchers interact with archival materials. The rise of data analytics and visualisation techniques will enable scholars to extract insights from large datasets, fostering new interdisciplinary approaches to research. For instance, projects like Mapping the Republic of Letters utilise digital mapping tools to visualise the correspondence networks of Enlightenment thinkers, providing new perspectives on their relationships and ideas. Archives will increasingly serve as collaborative hubs, providing researchers with primary sources, tools, and support for innovative methodologies.
Furthermore, the trend toward open access in academic and cultural institutions will prompt archives to prioritise transparency and public engagement. For example, the Archives of the History of American Psychology offers a robust online portal where users can access digitised materials, promoting broader engagement with historical records. However, this commitment to openness will require archivists to navigate ethical concerns regarding privacy and intellectual property rights, ensuring that access does not compromise individuals’ rights or the integrity of the materials.
• With your educational background of history, archives and library science, what impression do you have about the library professionals in the context of archives? What roles can librarians play in the field of archives?
Library professionals play a crucial and multifaceted role in archives, bridging the gap between traditional library services and the unique needs of archival practice. These professionals possess a strong foundation in information management, research skills, and community engagement, making them well-suited to contribute meaningfully to archival work.
One significant role librarians play in the field of archives is in information organisation and access. Librarians are trained in cataloging, classification, and metadata standards, essential skills for describing and managing archival collections. For instance, librarians helped develop and implement standardised descriptive practices, such as using Dublin Core or EAD (Encoded Archival Description), ensuring that archival materials are easily discoverable and accessible to users.
Additionally, librarians facilitate user engagement and outreach by promoting awareness of archival resources. They can organise workshops, exhibitions, or community events highlighting the importance of preserving local history and encouraging the public to engage with archival collections.
Librarians also have a pivotal role in digital preservation and access. As more archival materials are created and stored digitally, librarians can apply their expertise in digital curation and preservation strategies. They can assist in developing digital repositories and managing digital assets, ensuring that electronic records are preserved for future generations. Initiatives like the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) demonstrate how librarians can contribute to creating accessible digital collections that connect users to archival materials across various institutions.
Furthermore, librarians can collaborate with archivists on grant writing and project management, leveraging their program development and resource allocation skills. This collaboration can lead to successful funding applications for archival projects, enhancing the capacity of both librarians and archivists to serve their communities effectively.
Finally, librarians can advocate for information literacy in the context of archival research, helping users develop the skills needed to navigate and critically assess archival materials. By training on utilising archives for research purposes, librarians can empower users to engage meaningfully with primary sources, fostering a deeper understanding of history and its relevance to contemporary issues.
• Your advice to those who wish to explore their career in the domain of archives and other allied streams?
Pursuing a career in archives or an allied field can be incredibly fulfilling, but it is crucial to approach it with an understanding of the challenges involved. The archival profession holds a unique place in society, serving as the steward of history and memory. However, it is also a field marked by precarity. Those considering a career in this domain must be aware that the work often comes with low pay in proportion to the education and training needed, limited job opportunities, and uncertainty that might not be as prominent in other professions. This reality is particularly true for those in entry-level positions or working in smaller institutions where funding can be inconsistent, leading to short-term contracts or project-based roles.
I made it work by stepping away from the traditional career trajectory and becoming a consultant. I found that offering my expertise on a consultancy basis gave me more control over my career, income, and the types of projects I chose. I could focus on areas where I had specialised knowledge and work with clients who understood the value of what I offered. However, I also want to be clear that this path is not for everyone. It requires a particular mindset and risk tolerance, as building a solid client base may take time. In addition, I recognise that I had the incredible privilege of being able to take this gamble.
The increasing need for digital expertise is becoming more prominent in archives. Archival work has evolved, and the profession now demands a high level of proficiency with digital tools, systems, and technology. The ability to manage digital assets, understand metadata standards, and work with complex content management systems is a core skill set. While this exciting development opens new avenues for archival work, it is also worth noting that the same skills could be applied in better-paying industries. Many sectors, like technology and corporate information management, value archivists’ digital expertise. The technical skills developed in archival work are transferable and could be parlayed into roles with higher salaries and more stable career paths.
That said, I certainly do not want to discourage anyone from pursuing a career in archives. The profession has much to offer regarding intellectual stimulation, creativity, and the opportunity to contribute to something bigger than oneself. Archivists play a critical role in preserving culture, history, and knowledge; for many, this work’s rewards are not measured in salary alone. However, going into the field with a realistic understanding of the job market and its financial implications is essential. Not every archivist will have the opportunity or desire to become a consultant, and traditional roles, while rewarding, may not always provide the financial stability one hopes for.
My advice to anyone considering this field is to keep an open mind about how to apply your skills. Look beyond traditional archival roles and consider how your expertise in organising, preserving, and providing access to information can be useful in other industries. Many companies and organisations outside archives need professionals to manage information, especially as digital content grows. You might find that a career in archives can lead to unexpected opportunities if you are willing to adapt and explore different avenues. It is also worth considering how you can build a portfolio of skills that includes traditional archival competencies and cutting-edge digital proficiencies, as this combination can make you highly competitive in archival and non-archival sectors. ◊
Note • All the answers/ opinions expressed in this document are of the interviewee.
Courtesy • Research and editing: Santosh C. Hulagabali • Photograph and introductory words- Margot Note Consulting LLC
Cite • Hulagabali, Santosh C. (2024 September, 28). [Blog post]. Margot Note: AI and machine learning are revolutionising automation and accessibility of archives. Retrieved from: https://openinterview.org/2024/09/27/margot-note-ai-and-machine-learning-are-revolutionising-automation-and-accessibility-of-archives/
Santosh C Hulagabali, PhD is an Editor of Open Interview. He heads Central Library of Central University of Haryana. He is passionate about anything that is creative, challenging and positively impacts self and others. Email: santosh@cuh.ac.in
