Issue 3: Focus on Archives
A bit about research, facts, grad school, AI, academia, and libraries from an information specialist.
Preserving Our Past, One Historical Asset at a Time
As government websites quietly vanish, the Internet Archive remains a critical digital lifeline. This nonprofit library doesn’t just store data—it preserves history. With the help of AI, it sorts, categorizes, and digitizes everything from old microfiche to modern websites.
It's not just a repository; it’s a time machine. From past versions of websites (see Wayback Machine) to copyrighted materials preserved under fair use, the Archive ensures public access doesn't disappear with a dead link.
Explore it, use it, support it—because in a world of digital transience, the Internet Archive is keeping memory alive.
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) plays a crucial role in preserving U.S. government records and ensuring public access and transparency. But its mission is under threat.
Budget cuts could lead to staff reductions, slowed digitization, and fewer public services. Meanwhile, legislative changes could restrict NARA’s authority or access to records—limiting what the public can see and eroding government accountability.
NARA’s role is vital. Protecting its resources and authority is key to preserving our nation’s history and transparency.
💡Grad Student Hidden Gem! and Research Nugget
All these free resources can be used in graduate school (or anytime in college), though many students may not be aware of them. It varies depending on the research topic. I am a NARA Independent Researcher and met a grad student at the Fort Worth location who was researching her Native American heritage and utilizing their Dawes Records of the Five Civilized Tribes (Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole), which were historically located in Indian Territory (now Oklahoma).
Whether it is the Internet Archive, NARA, or the vast array of special collections held at colleges, museums, presidential libraries, public/school or special libraries, there is a wealth of information available both digitally and physically.
The challenge these days is for students who are unable to read cursive. They will certainly have challenges reading handwritten archival documents. The Citizen Archivists program is begging people to volunteer to transcribe and tag content, including cursive! AI is making strides in reading cursive from images, but as with all things AI, it’s not perfect.
❓ Ask Marj Asks You!
Do you know a student, postdoc, faculty member, or author who needs expert guidance in research, writing, fact-checking, or using AI responsibly?
I help with:
Research organization and literature searching
Time management strategies
Support for those struggling with writing, publication, or grant applications
Information literacy and AI best practices
A sounding board for academic stress or process questions
If you have someone in mind, please connect us! You can:
Email me at marj@askmarj.com
Call/text 601.627.5275
Forward my info or send their contact details, and I’ll cc: you in any introduction
I appreciate your referrals!
📅 Ask Marj, Coming Up
Collaborating With Community Partners: Building Research Support Networks for Solo Infopreneurs
Thursday, Oct 30, 1:30-2:15 pm CDT
Internet Librarian Connect 2025 Oct 28-30
Register now or share this with someone!
Independent information specialists face unique challenges and opportunities in today’s rapidly evolving information landscape. This session explores how solo practitioners can build meaningful research support networks by collaborating with libraries, academic institutions, nonprofits, and other community partners. Drawing on real-world examples and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to initiate, nurture, and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships that expand resources, enhance service offerings, and foster professional growth. Whether you’re a solo infopreneur looking to grow your impact or a library leader interested in innovative collaborations, this session offers practical insights for building a thriving, connected research ecosystem.
Thanks for reading and for caring about facts, accuracy, and informed decisions.
– Marj Atkinson
www.askmarj.com | LinkedIn
P.S. Forward to a friend who values reliable info!