FAQ
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Who are you?
Hello! My name is Sara Rebstock, and I am a student at the University of Southern Mississippi, where I am pursuing my Master's in Library Science. Along with my MLIS, I will be receiving my archival certification in December of 2024. I have a little under three years of library and archives experience from my role as Archive's Assistant at the Cammie G. Henry Research Center at Northwestern State University, and am the 2023 recipient of the LOUIS Excellence in Support Staff Award. My personal research ranges from library-related fields to queer and southern studies. I'm always eager to strike up a conversation, so if you want to chat about one of my blog posts, don't hesitate to send me an email!
Why did you start this blog?
I started this blog because I saw a gap in the research directly tying in the need for technology in archive and library spaces. My goal is to understand the current state and previous development of the role technology has in archival spaces, and to speculate on how it will progress in the future. While I aim to remain unbiased and factual, this blog is purely opinion-based and reflects my lived experiences and own thoughts.
What do you hope to accomplish?
I wanted and continue to strive for an open and honest dialogue among archivists about the pros and cons of technology in the preservation and restoration of our histories! Accomplishing an understanding of what technology has to offer archival spaces is the first foundational step to understanding how technology can best be utilized.
What is your stance on developing technology (i.e. artificial intelligence) in the workplace?
I believe that it is important for archivists and archival institutions to remain abreast of developing technologies and the many benefits that can be seen and utilized. However, it is also important to remain aware of potential risks and downfalls of utilizing underdeveloped technologies.
What is the relationship between archives and technology?
This is the question I am probably asked most often, and, in truth, it's the question that is most subjective. Understanding the development of technology's role in archives is the entire goal of this blog! In short, I believe that the relationship between archives and technology is intrinsic and completely co-dependent at this point; however, I believe that the way "technology" is defined and has adapted relies on semantics and subjective understandings of what technology actually is.
How often do you post?
I strive to post at least once every two weeks, if not more frequently! Currently, I have scheduled posts for every other Friday.