Dear Readers,
Welcome to the Fall 2024 edition of CLIR News.
This issue is brimming with insights, stories, and innovations that reflect CLIR’s ongoing mission to help libraries, archives, and museums weather today’s challenges. We’re all about fostering collaborations, exploring cutting-edge technology, and uplifting community-driven projects to ensure our shared histories not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world.
What’s New?
I’m particularly excited to share news about CLIR’s 100&Change Grant proposal submission. This isn’t just any grant—it’s a transformative $100 million initiative from the MacArthur Foundation that supports projects tackling some of the world’s biggest problems. Our project, Re:mind, is designed to use digital innovation to protect and preserve cultural and historical materials in ways that are as bold as they are collaborative. Fingers crossed as we wait for the outcome.
We’re also diving into the ongoing Climate Resiliency Series, where our experts explore how climate change is impacting libraries, archives, and museums—sometimes in devastating ways. This series has been instrumental in spotlighting strategies for preserving cultural heritage in the wake of environmental disasters. From raging fires to rising floods, the GLAMS community is coming up with inventive strategies to safeguard both physical and digital collections. I think you’ll find these conversations to be a testament to the resilience of our field and the importance of climate-conscious preservation.
On the Tech Front
One feature you won’t want to miss is Dr. Jane Winters’ brilliant insights into the world of AI and Machine Learning in archives. AI is changing the game, and her work reveals how this technology can not only organize vast collections but also enhance access in ways we’re only beginning to imagine. As always, she balances the enthusiasm for tech with a thoughtful look at the ethical considerations that come along with it. It’s thought-provoking and absolutely essential for anyone invested in the future of archival work.
Celebrating Community-Driven Preservation
We continue our focus on community-driven digital collections with an in-depth interview with T-Kay Sangwand, whose work on preserving Day of the Dead practices in Mexico City is a masterclass in collaboration. She breaks down how critical it is to involve communities in preserving their own histories, and her approach is as refreshing as it is necessary. This interview is packed with practical advice for GLAMS professionals looking to engage with local communities on meaningful archival projects.
In this issue, we’re also introducing Julie Beroukas Snyder, CLIR’s new Chief Development Officer, in an audio Q&A that covers everything from fundraising challenges to navigating today’s politically charged landscape. Julie’s candid insights on how nonprofits like CLIR can adapt and remain resilient will resonate with anyone involved in cultural preservation. Plus, it’s a great chance to get to know one of the newest members of our leadership team!
Team Updates
Speaking of resilience, CLIR’s Grants Team has been hard at work, and I’m thrilled to spotlight their recent success stories. From funding digitization projects to supporting at-risk cultural materials, their work continues to provide lifelines for GLAMS institutions around the world. If you’re not already plugged into their efforts, now’s the time to catch up.
Finally, we’re shining the spotlight on Dr. Luling Huang, a former CLIR postdoc whose career journey from Energy Social Science fellow to tenure-track professor at Missouri Western is a story of passion, persistence, and cross-disciplinary brilliance. Dr. Huang’s work connects communication, energy policy, and community engagement, showing us just how impactful GLAMS professionals can be across fields.
Looking Forward
This issue is packed with stories that remind us how resilient and forward-thinking the GLAMS community is. Whether it’s through leveraging AI or navigating the uncertain waters of climate change, we are continuously evolving. And as you’ll see from the features in this edition, we’re ready to tackle the future of cultural preservation head-on.
Thank you for being part of the CLIR community. I hope you enjoy this issue as much as I enjoyed putting it together. As always, we look forward to hearing your thoughts—and your own stories.
Happy Fall, Y’all!
Stacey Patton, Ph.D.
Editor, CLIR News
