Film archivists preserve classic Hollywood works.
Film archivists are responsible for cataloging, preserving, and organizing a collection of films and the memorabilia associated with them. Since most of the documents and film in a collection are old and often in poor condition, the film archivist is often responsible for preserving and making digital copies of the items. Communication is an important aspect of working on a film collection because an archivist is also needed to help researchers obtain film and film production documents. Archivists are also known as moving image archivists, reflecting the variety of information they are responsible for preserving.
A film archivist may take original rolls of film, copy them, and store them digitally.
Like a librarian, the film archivist is responsible for organizing information and keeping records of items in a collection. New items must be placed in the correct position in the catalog, and when used by researchers, the film archivist replaces the collection items on shelves and document cabinets. Film archives are created and maintained by academic institutions, film studios, and private collectors who employ archivists to care for their collection.
Archives are not just movies, but also include digital and non-digital copies of movies stored on DVDs, CDs, and videotapes. Documents also kept in the film archives include scripts, production schedules, still images, and various other memorabilia associated with the film industry. In carrying out their duties, the film archivist is usually responsible for organizing and preserving photographic and paper documents. Archivists must also be familiar with preservation software and techniques to ensure that records are preserved for future generations in the form of hard copies and digital versions.
Before becoming a film archivist, a comprehensive education must be completed, including completing a bachelor’s degree in English, history, or the associated humanities. Postgraduate studies typically include library courses and further education in preservation techniques. In addition to completing an academic education, every film archivist must be a good communicator, able to assist researchers and seek out new material for the collection.
The film archive is important as films, documentaries, and television shows are considered a social document that reflects the period in which the film was made. In the first half of the 20th century, movie making was seen as a quick and disposable form of entertainment that was rarely kept for future reference. However, in the second half of the year, films began to be seen as an art form and an important part of the culture in which they were created.