At risk of sounding like a pathetic girlie, I'm shoving my oar in. When I was
new to the profession and in my first professional post (way back in 1994) I
didn't know archivists were universally lovely and welcoming and felt a bit
embarrassed about turning up at a regional meeting as I didn't know anyone,
might come across as thick, wasn't sure of directions etc. etc.
Could this be at least part of the reason younger archivists don't tend to go?
Would it be an idea to have a new members meeting so people feel more included
in the region and could meet people properly? Could members planning to attend
offer lifts? Could regions even appoint a "new members rep" ?
Elizabeth Oxborrow-Cowan makes the point that attending regional events and
getting involved are good ways to learn. They are also useful for making
contacts and getting professional 'second opinions' as well as networking and
getting PRTDS credits (as if) but could, perhaps, be made a bit more welcoming
for the uninitiated. After all we are lovely aren't we?
Jenny Moran
Nottinghamshire Archives
P.S. As AEG Secretary I've also realised that I'll have to take my own advice
about being friendly and welcoming to new members!
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