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Research Center - Volunteer Opportunities

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT THE LIBRARY

The Conservation Society library is a unique resource for research, focusing primarily on the history of San Antonio and its built and natural environment. The library houses a variety of collections, including books, clippings files, photographs, maps, architectural drawings, and oral histories. One full-time librarian oversees the daily operations of the library, assisted by a small group of dedicated volunteers, who not only assist with research requests as needed, but also perform many of the “behind-the-scenes” tasks required to keep the library functioning.

The library is open to Society members and to the public Monday through Thursday from 9:30 to 3:30. We ask our volunteers to assist with covering as much of this time period as they can manage one day each week. Commitment is very important - please do not apply if you cannot make a minimum commitment to work in the library weekly for at least three months (not including illness, vacation, emergency).

The library currently has openings for volunteers on the days listed below. The projects available are also described. Please note that the library is located on the third floor of the Wulff house and is only accessible by climbing two flights of stairs. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the librarian, Beth Standifird, at 224-6163 or at bstandifird@saconservation.org.

TUESDAYS AND/OR THURSDAYS – 9:30 – 3:30

  • PHOTO CATALOGING

Goal: To standardize the records in the library’s photo database for use in an online catalog.

Description: Opportunity to work with the library’s collection of historical photographs and postcards. Review and correct existing cataloging information. Add new catalog records to the PastPerfect database. Instructions for PastPerfect can be found in the library procedures manual.

Requirements:
Ability to learn new computer software and perform data entry.
Attention to detail.
Follow correct procedures for handling photographs.

 

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