Archivist Interview Questions and Answers
Use this list of Archivist interview questions and answers to gain better insight into your candidates, and make better hiring decisions.
Archivist overview
When interviewing for an Archivist position, it's important to assess the candidate's organizational skills, attention to detail, and passion for preserving history. Look for someone who is methodical, tech-savvy, and has a genuine interest in archival work.
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Sample Interview Questions
📚 What's your favorite historical document or artifact you've worked with and why?
To gauge the candidate's passion and interest in archival work.
Sample answer
I once worked with a collection of letters from World War II soldiers. It was fascinating to read their personal stories and see history through their eyes.
🗂️ How do you ensure that digital archives are properly maintained and accessible?
To understand the candidate's knowledge of digital archiving practices.
Sample answer
I use a combination of metadata standards and regular backups to ensure digital archives are both accessible and preserved for the long term.
🔍 Can you describe a time when you had to solve a tricky organizational problem?
To assess problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Sample answer
I once had to reorganize an entire archive that had been poorly cataloged. It took time, but creating a new system made everything much easier to find.
📦 How do you handle fragile or deteriorating materials?
To evaluate the candidate's knowledge of preservation techniques.
Sample answer
I always handle fragile materials with gloves and store them in acid-free containers to prevent further deterioration.
🖥️ What software tools do you prefer for managing archives?
To determine the candidate's familiarity with archival software.
Sample answer
I prefer using tools like Archivematica and Omeka for their robust features and user-friendly interfaces.
📜 How do you prioritize which materials to archive first?
To understand the candidate's decision-making process.
Sample answer
I prioritize materials based on their historical significance and the condition they're in, ensuring the most valuable and at-risk items are preserved first.
🕵️♂️ Have you ever discovered something unexpected in an archive?
To see if the candidate has a sense of curiosity and excitement about their work.
Sample answer
Yes, I once found a hidden compartment in an old book that contained a family’s secret recipes from the 1800s!
📈 How do you measure the success of an archival project?
To assess the candidate's ability to evaluate their work.
Sample answer
Success is measured by the accessibility and usability of the archive, as well as feedback from users who find the materials helpful.
🧩 How do you handle requests for information from the public?
To evaluate the candidate's customer service skills.
Sample answer
I always respond promptly and provide as much information as possible, guiding them through the process of accessing the materials they need.
🌟 What do you think is the most important quality for an archivist to have?
To understand the candidate's perspective on the role.
Sample answer
Attention to detail is crucial, but a passion for history and a commitment to preserving it for future generations is what truly makes an archivist great.
Red Flags
Look out for these red flags when interviewing candidates for this role:
- Lack of enthusiasm for historical materials
- Poor organizational skills
- Inability to explain preservation techniques
- Limited knowledge of archival software
- Disinterest in digital archiving
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