Breadcrumb

  1. Harry S. Truman
  2. About the Library
  3. Volunteer Program
  4. Archives Assistant

Archives Assistant

SUPERVISED BY: Archives staff

PURPOSE OF JOB: Assist archives staff with basic archival functions such as processing, preservation, reference, etc. Objective is to assist in increasing availability of research material.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

  1. Photocopying and filing.
  2. Maintaining proper care and mainenance of all documents handled.
  3. Creating finding aids (indexes, catalogs, etc.).
  4. Data entry.
  5. Stamping documents.
  6. Preparing materials for preservation work.
  7. Communicating regularly with assigned supervisor about concerns, issues, or ideas arising from current project.
  8. Participating in reviews of projects and assignments to assess extension, reassignment, or completion.
  9. Ensuring the goals and policies of the archives and Library are promoted and adhered to.

A minimum commitment of 4-5 hours per week for a three-month period is required. Volunteer opportunities will be available Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. There are no weekend or evening shifts available for this position.

QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:

Must be age 16 or older

Basic computer skills and/or good handwriting helpful

Flexible to changing situations

Reliable, responsible

Able to work independently as well as in a group environment

Able to accept supervision

Interest in history

Capable of performing repetitive tasks with attention to detail

Detail oriented

Good organizational skills

TRAINING/ORIENTATION PROVIDED:

Since the duties performed by Archives Assistants are varied, training and work assignments are designed to meet the specific requirements of the task to be accomplished. Training is provided on-the-job by Truman Library Archives staff.

Basic reading materials on archives work and Harry Truman’s presidency are provided.

LOCATION OF JOB:

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, Independence, Missouri

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS:

Knowledge about Harry S. Truman, the Library and Museum, and the educational aspects offered to visitors through a variety of programs/exhibits; discount prices in the museum gift shop; invitations to special events; volunteer appreciation programs; free parking; free subscription to "Whistle-Stop," the quarterly newsletter of the Harry S. Truman Library Institute; free admission to the museum for you and your immediate family; close work with original and unique historical documents.