Become aDigital Archivist

Why step into the world of digital archiving? Because you have the power to protect and pass on knowledge. As a Digital Archivist, you’re not just saving data – you’re saving pieces of human history, culture, and knowledge from being lost in the digital abyss. Plus, you get to use cool tech gadgets and software to solve history’s greatest challenges!

A Digital Archivist collects, organises, preserves, and makes accessible the digital records of our time. Whether it’s digitising old photographs, managing digital archives, or ensuring the long term preservation of digital information, your role ensures that important data is safeguarded against the ravages of time and technology. The job of the Digital Archivist can include:

• Trawling through digital platforms for content worth preserving
• Analysing tags and metadata to learn more about content
• Transferring analogue information into digital storage
• Safe, secure and efficient data management and storage

The digital realm knows no bounds, and as a Digital Archivist, neither do your career options. From museums preserving history to corporations protecting digital assets, your skills are in demand across various fields.

• Museums and Archives
• Libraries
• Universities and Research Institutions
• Government Agencies
• Corporations and Tech Companies
• Media and Entertainment

Becoming a Digital Archivist means having a unique blend of skills.

• Technical Proficiency
  • Digital Preservation Understanding of digital preservation techniques and tools to maintain the integrity and accessibility of digital records over time.
  • Data Management Skills in managing large datasets, including metadata creation and management.
• Software Knowledge
  •  Proficiency in using archival software and content management systems (CMS).
• Analytical Skill
  • Organisation Ability to categorise and organise digital content logically and systematically.
  • Attention to Detail Ensuring accuracy and completeness of records and metadata.
• Research Skills
  • Historical Knowledge Understanding historical context to accurately preserve and interpret digital records.
• Resourcefulness 
  • Ability to locate and utilise various sources for digital archiving.
• Communication Skills
  • Written Communication Ability to create clear and concise documentation, reports, and guides.
• Collaboration 
  • Working effectively with other archivists, IT professionals, and stakeholders.
• Legal and Ethical Understanding
  • Compliance Knowledge of legal requirements and ethical considerations in digital archiving, such as copyright and privacy laws.

To prepare for a career as a Digital Archivist, you should focus on the following STEM subjects, along with relevant humanities subjects:

• Information Technology
  • Courses that provide a foundation in computer systems, software applications, and digital literacy.
• Mathematics
  • Important for developing analytical and data management skills.
• History
  • Understanding historical contexts and methodologies, which is important for accurate archiving.
• English
  • Developing strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Legal Studies
  • Provides insight into legal and ethical issues related to digital archiving.

Imagine uncovering a long lost digital manuscript or creating an online exhibit that goes viral. Digital Archivists bring the past to life, making it accessible to anyone with internet access, and sometimes even use virtual reality to create immersive historical experiences.

• Preserving Digital Heritage Safeguarding important digital records and cultural heritage for future generations.
• Digitising Historical Documents Converting physical documents, photographs, and audiovisual materials into digital formats.
• Creating Virtual Exhibits Developing online collections and virtual exhibits that make historical and cultural content accessible worldwide.
• Implementing New Technologies Using advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to enhance digital archiving processes.
• Supporting Academic Research Providing valuable digital resources and archives for researchers and scholars.
• Collaborating Internationally Working with global institutions to share and preserve digital content.
• Engaging with the Public Creating educational programs and interactive experiences for the public.
• Protecting Digital Assets Ensuring the security and integrity of digital archives against cyber threats.
• Managing Digital Projects Overseeing digital archiving projects from inception to completion.
• Exploring Historical Mysteries Uncovering and interpreting hidden stories within digital archives.

While many Digital Archivists work behind the scenes, figures like Ross Harvey, Joanne Evans, and Frank Upward have significantly contributed to the field, creating digital preservation techniques and educating future archivists.

As a Digital Archivist the following personality traits might come in handy.

• Curious
• Detail Oriented
• Patient
• Creative
• Analytical
• Tech Savvy

Several Australian universities offer degrees and programs that can lead to a career as a Digital Archivist. Some of the relevant degrees include:

• Bachelor of Information Studies
  • Charles Sturt University (CSU) offers a specialisation in records and archives management.
• Bachelor of Arts (History or Cultural Heritage)
  • University of Melbourne provides courses in history and cultural heritage, with options to focus on digital archiving.
  • University of Sydney offers programs in history and cultural studies with relevant electives.
• Bachelor of Information Technology
  • University of Queensland (UQ) includes courses in data management and digital preservation.
• Bachelor of Digital Media
  • University of New South Wales (UNSW) focuses on digital content creation and management.
• Graduate Diploma in Information and Library Studies
  • Curtin University specialises in digital recordkeeping and archives.

Why stick to one subject when you can mix and match to create the perfect potion for your career? Interdisciplinary studies are like the Swiss Army knife of education, equipping you with tools from different disciplines to tackle the challenges of digital archiving.

• Blend History with Tech
  • Imagine combining the insights of history with the innovations of technology. This powerful combo prepares you to preserve the past using the future’s tools.
• Library Science and IT
  • By marrying Library Science with Information Technology, you learn not just to organise information, but also to make it accessible and preserve it against digital decay.
• Workshops and Online Courses
  • Besides formal degrees, participating in specific workshops or online courses on digital preservation, data management, or even coding can provide valuable skills.

Your academic journey could be packed with fascinating subjects, from the mysteries of archival science to the nuts and bolts of digital data management. You’ll learn how to digitise records, manage digital collections, understand metadata, and even delve into digital ethics and copyright laws.

Hands on experience is gold in the world of digital archiving. You could explore world experience at libraries, archives, or museums. Or how about volunteering to digitise local history collections or assisting in digital data management projects can open doors for your future career path.

Unsure about a traditional university route? That’s perfectly okay! Many people prefer hands on experience or alternative learning paths that can be just as rewarding and effective.

• Micro Learning
  • Short, focused online courses in digital archiving, coding, or data management can be a flexible and practical way to build your skills.
• Industry Experience
  • Starting in a related role, like a library assistant or records manager, and working your way up through workplace training and internal courses can lead to a rewarding career as a Digital Archivist.

You can explore the latest apprenticeships and traineeships here: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.au/apprentices/how-to-find-and-prepare-for-an-apprenticeship/check-your-literacy-and-numeracy-skills

• Western Australia
  • WA has a rich history and vibrant cultural scene providing unique opportunities in museums like Boola Bardip, local archives, and cultural institutions.
• Across Australia
  • Government bodies, universities, and large corporations offer roles in records management, digital preservation, and information governance.
• Around the World
  • The demand for Digital Archivists is global, with opportunities in international archives, digital preservation projects, and global corporations looking to preserve their digital heritage.

Your future as a Digital Archivist is a blend of history, technology, and adventure. With each step, you’re not just paving your career path – you’re ensuring that the digital memories of today can be discovered by the adventurers of tomorrow.