Join the Association of Newfoundland and Labrador Archives (ANLA) for a five-day mentorship experience designed to introduce students to the dynamic and essential work of archives. Whether you’re working in a community museum, historical society, or heritage organization, this week-long program offers a practical and engaging overview of archival processes and projects, led by seasoned archival professional Mary Ellen Wright.

Each day will feature focused sessions on key aspects of archival work:

Day 1: Introduction to the World of Archives
Get acquainted with what archives are, why they matter, and how they support memory, accountability, and culture. This session will cover foundational concepts, types of archival institutions, and the role of archivists in preserving our documentary heritage.

Day 2: The Digitization Process
Learn about the considerations and workflows involved in digitizing archival material. From equipment selection to metadata creation and access platforms, participants will gain insight into best practices and common pitfalls in digital preservation projects.

Day 3: Inventory of Archival Holdings
Explore how to assess and document archival collections, including how to create inventories and accession records. Students will be introduced to basic tools for tracking collections and prioritizing areas for future processing.

Day 4: Arrangement and Description
Discover how to make sense of archival materials by organizing them and creating clear, accessible descriptions. This session covers archival principles like original order and provenance, as well as descriptive standards like RAD (Rules for Archival Description).

Day 5: Common Projects – “Boxes Under the Bed”
End the week with a look at typical community archival challenges. Learn how to approach mystery boxes, unlabeled photos, and legacy collections, and how to apply professional principles in low-resource environments.

This mentorship week is a valuable opportunity for students to build foundational knowledge, connect with peers, and gain guidance from a leader in the archival field.

About the Mentor: Mary Ellen Wright

Mary Ellen Wright is a respected figure in the Newfoundland and Labrador heritage sector with decades of experience in archival practice and outreach. She served as Professional Development and Outreach Officer at ANLA for over 20 years, supporting archives across the province with training, advocacy, and strategic development.

With a background in library and information science and a deep understanding of both formal and community-based archival environments, Mary Ellen has worked with institutions large and small to build capacity, improve access, and preserve vital cultural records. Known for her practical wisdom, generous mentorship, and deep commitment to heritage preservation, she continues to be a guiding voice for emerging professionals in the field.

Dates: July 21 – July 25, 2025
Location: Online via Zoom

Registration deadline: July 18, 2025

To register, please fill out the following form by 12:00 PM NDT on Friday, July 18: https://forms.gle/zCxqCR6zYcqXdFvs9