University of Washington (University of Washington, The Information School)

The University of Washington will systematically investigate how library needs and best practices related to the development of community archives vary across urban and rural public libraries to enhance community archives across library systems. This three-year applied research project will explore the roles, challenges, and best practices involved in establishing community archives in diverse library settings; provide funding to develop and implement community archives in urban and rural public libraries; and support a cohort of eight public librarians through community archives training workshops and mentorship. Deliverables will include an expanded toolkit and resources to assist libraries establishing community archives, as well as scholarly publications detailing project findings. This project will benefit public library staff and community members by fostering more inclusive cultural heritage collections. Subrecipient and project partner Tacoma Public Library will support University of Washington staff in updating the toolkit and provide their firsthand knowledge and expertise of developing community archives within a public library.