Promoting Archival Work Through Advocacy and Outreach
Thursday, August 21, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. (Pacific Standard Time)
In this time of funding uncertainty, how can you be an effective advocate for libraries and archives and what do you need to get started? How can you make the leap from concerned archivist to active advocate? Archival consultant Jess Farrell will outline common strategies and tactics for getting your story out there with tips for how to choose the best path to achieve your goal. The workshop will also feature strategic communications consultant Alice Walton, who will discuss how archives professionals can tailor their messaging for different audiences.
Please forward any questions or comments to Rob Strauss and Gillian Goldberg at educationcommittee@calarchivists.org.
The cost is $10 for SCA members; $5 for student members; $20 for non-members; and $5 for unemployed or precariously employed individuals.
Presenters:
Jess Farrell is an organizer and archival consultant living and working in Greater Boston. She advocated internally for digital archives over 15 years before establishing Redstart Works, an archival consultancy, in 2024. Jess has been on the Society of American Archivists' Committee on Public Policy for 7 years, currently serving as Chair. She has participated in all kinds of collective action projects, from developing national legislation for archives to flipping a city council.
Alice Walton is a seasoned strategic communications consultant, specializing in navigating the intricate landscape of high-profile clients to achieve ambitious regulatory and legislative objectives. Currently, Alice serves as a key member of the team at Fiona Hutton & Associates. Alice began her professional career as a political reporter, contributing her insights to the Los Angeles Times, 89.3 KPCC public radio and the regional wire service, City News Service.
Registration is open until August 20. Online payment is required.
First Fridays: Advocacy and Outreach
Friday, September 05, 2025
12:00 p.m. – 01:00 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time)
Come together with colleagues from across the community as we explore strategies and tactics for effective advocacy and outreach for libraries, museums, and archives.
In times of uncertainty, advocacy is essential—it helps secure funding, raise awareness, and ensure the preservation and accessibility of our collections. Yet figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming. This interactive, open-forum session will provide space to: • Identify and connect with your audience • Craft compelling messages • Share stories of impact • Exchange ideas and learn from peers
Hosted by the Education Committee, this First Fridays session builds on themes from the webinar Promoting Archival Work Through Advocacy and Outreach—but attendance at the webinar is not required to join.
Please forward any questions or comments to Allura Hays and Shelby Sorensen at educationcommittee@calarchivists.org.
The cost is $0 for SCA members; $0 for student members. This is an SCA Member event only. This event will not be recorded.
Registration is open until September 4.
