Manuscripts Processing – Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries – Vanderbilt University
Location Description
The Special Collections and University Archives Library (SCUA) is part of the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries System. The mission of SCUA is to collect, preserve, and provide access to Vanderbilt University’s impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, memorabilia, and institutional archives. SCUA supplies primary resource material to a variety of local, national, and international scholars.
Practicum Work Mode
On site
Semesters or Time Period Available
Ongoing, not limited to a specific semester
Location
1101 19th Ave. S.
Nashville, TN 37212
https://www.library.vanderbilt.edu/specialcollections
Contact
Mary McSparran
Curator of Manuscripts
mary.mcsparran@vanderbilt.edu
615-343-6708
Student Tasks
In this practicum, students will learn about the full lifecycle of a primary source collection, from acquisition to public engagement. They will focus primarily on arranging and describing an unprocessed collection of personal papers or organizational records which they will select in consultation with the curator. Students will have the opportunity to learn Aeon and ArchivesSpace, two valuable Special Collections technologies.
Type of Mentoring Provided to the Student
Students will check in with the supervisor regularly and will meet weekly for hands-on training and progress tracking.
Student Interaction With Others at the Location
The Vanderbilt Special Collections and University Archives is a collaborative unit, and students will have the option to speak with staff members in a variety of positions.