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Definitions: Archivist
Archivist is a title that is used to describe a person who may be responsible for the management of archival and manuscript collections. An archivist's job may include activities such as appraising, acquiring, arranging, describing, preserving, and providing access to primary sources. By carrying out these activities, archivists serve to protect the authenticity and context of the materials in their care.
An archivist is often the best person to approach for in-depth information about the collections he or she oversees.
The terms archivist and curator are often used interchangeably. Archivists may also have additional descriptors in their titles to explain specific areas of responsibility. For example, the University Archivist is the person who cares for the permanent records of the university. A project archivist has been hired to work in a concentrated area, such as a subject area, or on a specific collection.
| For a more in-depth discussion of the definition of titles used to describe people who work in archives and special collections, visit the web site of The Society of American Archivists. There, you will find an an online glossary of archival terms, including a discussion of the definition of archivist. |
