harnessing the wisdom of the patrons : creating a maryland based historical/genealogical lecture...
TRANSCRIPT
Harnessing the Wisdom of the Patrons : Creating a Maryland Based Historical/Genealogical Lecture Series on a Zero Dollar Budget
Dan RamirezMaryland State Archives
In early 2012 the Maryland State Archives began to think of offering a programming endeavor to attract patrons to its Annapolis facility. Unfortunately there was no money that could be spared for this venture How could the Maryland State Archives host a program that would attract patrons, but could be carried out without a budget? Would this endeavor be successful? This poster tells the story.
Cultural heritage institutions can utilize their patrons as lecturers and presenters. An organization’s patrons have a vast amount of knowledge obtained through using the repository’s collections, performing research for other parties, publishing historical works, and interacting with staff. Patrons are likely to volunteer their services provided that they are given a clear idea as to what is expected of them should they wish to lecture, they are able to schedule themselves to present on a date that is convenient for them, they believe in the repository as an asset, they can present on a topic that interests them, they appreciate the repository’s staff who have helped them in the past so they feel the need to give back something to the repository, they are able to advertise their research services at the lecture, and they are thanked for lecturing.
YES, let us look at attendance !
Yes, let us look at what the presenters have to say:
Lecturing at MSA (Maryland State Archives) was motivated by two things, status and giving back. As a lecturer trying to build a business, having a lecture at MSA is very good on my resume and shows other potential clients that my speaking ability is at a professional level. Secondly, I was so happy to be of service to an organization that allows me to research without fees and with such knowledgeable and helpful staff.- Rebecca Koford
I have been researching at the Maryland State Archives throughout my career as a professional genealogist, and have come to know the research staff well during that time. When Dan Ramirez asked me to lecture, I immediately agreed, as a way to thank the Reference staff for the help they have provided me with over the years.- Michael Hait
I enjoyed working there (Maryland State Archives), and I wanted to help get the lecture series underway- Bob Barnes
Why not have the veteran patrons inform other patrons?
Defining the Problem
Working Toward a Solution
The Idea and Solution
Does the Solution Work?
Conclusion
Central Question
Dan Ramirez no longer works at the Maryland State Archives. He now works at the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System. To reach him please email him at [email protected].
Note
How do you get patrons to volunteer their services?
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Implementing the Solution
The Solution In Action
First the Archives had to look at what it had. Which was?
1. Unique and rare records
2. Space
3. Convenient openings on Saturdays
4. Growing patron base with interest in genealogy
5. Steep learning curve to starting genealogical research
6. Staff that were too busy to answer in depth genealogical questions
7. However there were patrons that
1. Had spoken to genealogy groups before
2. Had published their research before
3. Had taught or provided genealogical instruction before
4. Had been researching longer than most staff
Can you get an accomplished and competent patron community to provide lectures for your organization for free?
HELP
Patrons want to help other patrons and want to give something back to the Archives. Patrons believe that the staff helped them so they can help patrons in return. Having a good rapport with your patrons is a must.
The lecture series also gives speakers the ability to promote their services (if they are private genealogists for hire) or to sell their book (if they have published).
Given that some of the patrons had already spoken to audiences before they did not have to invent a speaking session from scratch.
A proposal was submitted and approved to get internal approval and institutional support.It was decided that there would be no charge for those who wanted to attend lectures.
Speakers were found. They were easy to find as they are regular patrons.
(Michael Hait) (Rebecca Koford) (Bob Barnes) (Elinor Thompson)
The topics for the speakers were then identified. Any topic related to Maryland history or Maryland genealogy was suitable for the lecture series. We allowed a speaker to discuss a topic that they were interested in and knowledgeable about.
The dates for the lectures were organized. It was decidedto host the lectures on Saturdays since that iswhen most people are available.
Advertise (Free Options Included)• Patch.Com Calendar• Online Newspaper Calendars• Friends in the Media• In your facility• ListServs
Why not have the veteran patrons inform other patrons?
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Attendance at the Lectures (Number of People Registered)
Attendance at the Lectures (Number of People Registered)
Bob Barnes (patron and professional genealogist) gives a lecture on September 15, 2012 on Early Maryland Marriages.
Mike McCormick( Reference Director) gives a lecture on October 20, 2012 on Photographic Preservation.
Rebecca Koford (patron and professional genealogist) gives a lecture on November 17, 2012 on Identifying Men of the Same Name in Genealogical Research.
Michael Hait (patron and professional genealogist) gives a lecture on Identifying Slave Holders in Maryland on December 8, 2012
Elinor Thompson (patron and professional genealogist) gives a lecture on Preserving African American Church Records on February 23, 2013
The lecture series has continued. Spring lectures were scheduled for March 23, April 13, April 20, May 11, and May 18.
The fall 2013 lecture series has been scheduled so stay tuned!