Alcorn Dean of Libraries presents at Society of Mississippi Archivists, nominated for board
Alcorn State, Miss. (May 14, 2013) – Dr. Blanche Sanders, dean of University Libraries at Alcorn, recently presented at a regional meeting for the Society of Mississippi Archivists (SMA) at Delta State University. Her presentation on “The Importance of Archives at HBCUs” was based on HBCU archives with emphasis placed on the functionality of preservation and conservation of university archival material.
“Universities have a commitment to the intellectual, cultural and economic development of diverse communities,” stated Dr. Sanders. “In a modern archivist’s role, we must aid in providing rewarding educational experiences, research, creativity and scholarly activity. The practice of digitizing historical material will provide accessibility to a wealth of knowledge through communication, collaborations, and institutional effectiveness of the library programs and services.”
After Dr. Sanders’ captivating presentation, it was announced that she was nominated to serve as a board member for SMA.
“If elected as a board member, I plan to develop a networking community in the archive profession,” said Sanders. “Special topics of discussion will include preservation/conservation, and the weight and legacy of historical documents will be critically assessed. The promotion of preservation and the value of historical heritages will further expand our cause and bring light to its importance.”
This nomination adds to her already impressive list of professional memberships and activities. She is currently a member of the American Library Association, Association of College and Research Libraries, and the Society of Mississippi Archivist. Sanders has received professional training in library service from the HBCU Library Alliance Exchange, Information Literacy Leadership Institute, Harvard Institute for Higher Education Program, Leadership Institute for Academic Librarians, Peabody Professional Institutes, Summer Institute for Academy Library Leadership, HBCU Library Alliance, Leadership Institute I and II, the Grant Institute, and HBCU Archives Institute. She was named the 1890 vice-president elect for Library Deans/Directors Association. Most recently, Sanders was featured in “Who’s Who in Black Mississippi 2012”.
