UP Archives assistant archivist Alida Green chats about her career and the important skills that she has acquired over the years.

“One significant lesson I learned from my time in historical research is the value of critical thinking and analysis,” says UP Archives assistant archivist Alida Green, who talks about her role at the University of Pretoria (UP).

Tell us a bit about your background.

I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at UP and received a higher certificate in Archival Studies from the University of South Africa. Before being permanently appointed at UP, I worked as a historical researcher for governmental organisations, industry as well as local and international researchers.

During my undergraduate years, I worked as a student assistant in the UP Archives; I worked in a part-time contract capacity in the archives and was appointed as a full-time staff member in 2011.

What was your major and what motivated you to pursue it?

I studied history to explore how social dynamics shape communities. My thesis, titled ‘Dancing the night away: A history of Johannesburg’s social dancing worlds, 1920s to 1950s’, examines how different communities in Johannesburg used social dance to navigate their circumstances. By analysing archival and alternative sources, I aimed to understand how these dances were integrated into Johannesburg's culture, especially among the white and black middle class. Overall, my research aimed to show how dance reflected and responded to the complex social dynamics of South Africa during this era of segregation and change.

How does the knowledge you gained enhance your daily responsibilities?

It confirmed my passion for archival records and provided me with a more holistic view when assisting students and researchers with their research projects.

What are the responsibilities and functions of an assistant archivist?

An archivist is responsible for acquiring, preserving, organising and providing access to archival materials. They manage collections, ensure their long-term preservation, assist researchers and develop procedures for handling records. A typical day in the office includes collecting and ordering documents, photos and memorabilia; scanning and uploading historical records; transcribing archival records to make them more accessible; and assisting with research requests on UP's history. We also frequently have exhibits and events that celebrate UP's vast and diverse history.

Which skills have been beneficial to you in your career?

Attention to detail, accuracy and consistency are skills that are beneficial in my career.

What aspects of your job do you find most enjoyable?

I enjoy working with historical documents and making these records accessible by sharing interesting information and the histories of UP with researchers.

What challenges do you encounter in your role?

Like many archival facilities, we have limited storage available, and this presents challenges, as the UP Archives frequently receive new records from various stakeholders. This often requires creative solutions for maximising storage space and prioritising where materials can be kept.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your university experience?

The pandemic significantly altered how I communicated with my colleagues, peers and researchers, as well as how I accessed information. For me, it was a period of adjustment and personal development. I learnt to be more adaptive as many of the archive resources for my work and study had to be repackaged for use in an online setting. During lockdown, I also improved my communication skills because all communications had to be clear and succinct in order to be received ideally in an online context.

What lessons have you learnt from your time in the professional world that are relevant to your career?

One significant lesson I learned from my time in historical research that is relevant to a career in archives is the value of critical thinking and analysis. Historical research often involves piecing together fragments of information to construct a coherent narrative or argument. This requires the ability to critically evaluate sources, assess their reliability and bias, and interpret them within their historical context.

Similarly, in archives, archivists must critically evaluate materials as they access, arrange and describe them, making informed decisions about how best to preserve and provide access to them.

What are your preferences and areas of aversion?

I love history and enjoy researching to uncover the stories and significance behind archival materials. I also have an interest in technology and its potential for enhancing archival practices. I also enjoy working with researchers, donors and colleagues to acquire, process and promote archival materials.

I dislike it when archival material is misinterpreted or misused to prove or support a view, particularly when sensitive or controversial content is involved. Understanding the context of a historical record is extremely important when assessing and interpreting its value.

What activities do you enjoy most on campus?

I love the academic opportunities that the campuses offer, particularly the tools provided through the library, such as the online databases and the study space in the research commons, which were useful in completing my studies.

What advice can you offer colleagues about managing the work-study balance?

Doing a little bit each day will go a long way in completing your studies and work. Consistency is key.

What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy reading, running and ballroom dancing.

What does the slogan “Make Today Matter” mean to you?

It encourages me to make a positive impact in whatever I do.