Weekend in the Archives
For researchers, clergy, and students
Rev. Dr. Nicole Kirk, Dr. John Dechant, and Sarah Levine
October 13 – 15, 2023
In-person at Meadville Lombard Theological School, Chicago, IL
Cost:
Free for students enrolled in MAR, MDiv, or DMin at Meadville Lombard
$75 for external researchers and clergy
Registration is closed
Join us for an exciting weekend workshop immersed in Meadville Lombard’s archives and special collections, including the UUA congregational files. Explore the rich history and hidden stories of the Unitarians, Universalists, and Unitarian Universalists.
During this unique experience, you will learn about Meadville Lombard’s archives and special collections and an introduction to archival research methods. Participants will also have the time to work on their research. Mini-workshops and presentations will be offered throughout the weekend by Meadville Lombard’s historian and librarians. Individual time with staff will also be available. Already a seasoned researcher? Come for the weekend hours and to build community with other researchers. Learn what Meadville Lombard’s collections have to offer.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop practical skills in archival research and identify additional resources to support your research
- Apply a critical perspective and analysis to archival research
- Examine ways to study marginalized voices in the archives
- Explore the relationship between archives and social justice
- Engage with other participants in your research and share ideas.
Dr. Nicole C. Kirk is the Frank and Alice Shulman Chair of UU History at Meadville Lombard Theological School. Before joining the faculty at Meadville Lombard, Nicole was a UU parish minister. She is the author of Wanamaker’s Temple: The Business of Religion in an Iconic Department Store. Her current research focuses on mobile communities and their religious practices.
Sarah Levine is the Assistant Director of Library and Archives at Meadville Lombard Theological School. Prior to joining MLTS, Sarah has done work at libraries and archives in Chicago, including the Webster Institute for the History of Astronomy at the Adler Planetarium, the Gerber/Hart Library and Archives, the Chicago History Museum, and the American Theological Library Association. Her professional interest is in social justice in the archives and she is delighted to be able to pursue that passion at Meadville Lombard.
Dr. John Dechant is the Director of Library and Archives at Meadville Lombard Theological School. He holds a Master of Library and Information Sciences degree from Indiana University at Purdue-Indianapolis and a PhD from Indiana University-Bloomington in Near Eastern Studies. He joined the staff in the summer of 2023.
