Mid-Semester Check In
Posted February 25, 2026 by Mary Kassman
Time has flown by, and it is crazy to think that I am approaching the halfway point for my last semester! Classes are in full swing and we’re getting into the thick of things. In LIS 505-Preventative conservation, we have conducted our first site visit and started monitoring the Simmons Art Storage Room. We worked as a group to place multiple data loggers that track relative humidity and temperature throughout the space, took multiple lux and UV lighting measurements, and placed glue traps around the perimeter of the room. It was a great way to experience everything we are learning in class, in a realistic hands-on setting. In LIS 462-Digitization Project Planning, we were split into groups and each given a small collection from the Simmons University Archives to digitize. We are deep in the throes of project planning, and have gotten to inventory and handle the materials we are working with.
One thing I am really enjoying this semester is the large amount of hands-on archival work I am getting to experience in just these two classes alone. In my third class, LIS 442-Establishing Archives Programs, I am also working on a semester long group project. We were given a scenario in which we are creating a strategic plan and grant proposals for a fictional historical society’s archive. The Strategic plan felt very daunting at first, but between my amazing group members, and how the project is spread out over weeks, It has actually been a really smooth process. It is interesting to be learning more about the business and management side of an Archive.
In addition to my classes I have also been working as a collections assistant at Schlesinger library, working on getting materials ready for use or off site storage, and thoroughly enjoying the time I get to put into practice what I am learning in class. I’ve also been working, for over a year now, as an intern for Graduate Admissions. This role has really helped me strengthen my organizational and communication skills, and I can see the positive effects of this in other areas of my life. Between juggling two jobs and classes, I am looking forward to spring break next week, and being able to have some down time to relax and catch up with friends.Grad school can be a lot at times, and it is important to remember to take time for yourself and recharge your batteries!