Working as a Contract Archivist: Strategies for Success

1. Working as a Contract Archivist: Strategies for Success Eden Orelove Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference October 27, 2012

2. A Little About My Current Position • Work as a contract Photograph Archivist at the Smithsonian Institution Archives • Funded by the Collection Care Preservation Grant • Started work at SIA in January 2012 • Recently had my contract extended to September 2013

3. Inventorying • Originally hired to do an inventory of the SIA cold storage vault photographic materials • Includes over 2 million photographs • Goal is to eventually move collections to a new facility • Determine extent, box sizes, condition, content, owning institution, medium

4. Stabilizing Broken Glass Plate Negatives

5. Other Tasks • Rehousing collections • Fulfilling Orders for Photographic Images • Digitizing and Creating Metadata • Film Inspection, Condition Reports and Recommendations • Sit on the SIASC committee

6. Pros of Contract Work Greater Flexibility 2. Variety 3. Maintain Skill Set 4. Opportunity for Future Full-time Employment with Companies Source: http://www.buzzhunt.co.uk/2011/04/19/flexible-cat/

7. Cons of Contract Work • 1. Sometimes You Feel Like an Outsider • 2. Not as Stable • -Have to always think about getting the next job • 3. Lack of Benefits • 4. Taxes Source: http://stuffpoint.com/cats/image/56971/cat-ddd-picture/

8. Skills Required for Success • Motivation • Take advantage of opportunities • Networking • Don’t be afraid to meet people • Conferences • Active member of professional organizations • Find/Be a Mentor • SAA mentoring program • Other mentoring programs • Flexibility Source: http://9meow.blogspot.com/2012/06/cute-cats-2.html

9. If You Feel Overwhelmed… Contact Me! Eden Orelove orelovee@si.edu Source: http://9meow.blogspot.com/2012/06/cute-cats-2.html

10. Questions? My Cat Nutley