1 The importance of archival literacy

Archival literacy is the ability to locate, understand, and use archival sources in various formats and contexts. It is a subset of information literacy, which is the broader skill of finding, evaluating, and using information effectively and ethically. Archival literacy is especially important for digital archival research, as it requires students and researchers to be aware of the nature, purpose, and limitations of online archives, as well as the ethical and legal implications of using archival materials. Archival literacy also helps students and researchers develop critical thinking, analytical, and creative skills that are essential for academic and professional success.

2 The challenges of digital archival research

Digital archival research can be both exciting and daunting for students and researchers. On one hand, it offers access to a vast amount of historical documents and records that can enrich their knowledge and understanding of various topics and issues. On the other hand, it can also be overwhelming and confusing, as it involves navigating through different platforms, databases, and collections, each with its own structure, scope, and quality. Moreover, digital archival research can also raise some questions and concerns about the reliability, authenticity, and accuracy of online sources, as well as the ethical and legal issues of using and reproducing them.

3 The role of library instruction

Library instruction can be a crucial tool for students and researchers to overcome the challenges of digital archival research and develop their archival literacy skills. It can provide guidance and support in identifying and selecting appropriate online archives and databases, as well as in developing effective search strategies and techniques. Additionally, library instruction can help in evaluating the credibility, authority, and quality of online sources and their metadata, interpreting and analyzing them in relation to their historical, cultural, and social contexts, citing and referencing them correctly and ethically, and creating original arguments based on online sources.

4 The methods of library instruction

Library instruction can employ various methods and formats to integrate digital archival research into its curriculum and activities. Online tutorials and guides, for example, are self-paced and interactive resources that can introduce students and researchers to the basics of digital archival research. Workshops and webinars, on the other hand, can provide more in-depth and tailored instruction on specific aspects or topics. Additionally, consultations and referrals offer personalized and customized assistance and advice to those with specific needs or challenges. All of these approaches can help students and researchers practice and apply their skills, ask questions, share feedback, collaborate with each other and librarians, as well as find rare or obscure sources, deal with technical or ethical issues, improve research skills, and access other relevant resources.

5 The benefits of library instruction

Library instruction can have numerous advantages for students and researchers who are involved in digital archival research, such as increasing their confidence and competence in utilizing online archives and databases. It can also help them to comprehend and appreciate historical documents and records better, as well as develop their critical thinking, analytical, and creative abilities. Moreover, library instruction can boost their academic and professional performance and productivity, as well as foster their curiosity and interest in historical inquiry and discovery.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?