Introduce yourself to the Library archives with public sessions

The Moose Jaw Public Library is looking to trot out the numerous resources housed in its archives — resources that some people may not even know are there.

The first session was held on Aug. 20, titled Animals in the Archives. The evening session focused on the Wild Animal Park and its history.

The second session, titled Introduction to Archives and Archival Research, is set to follow on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. and will be a run-through of the many different resources in the archives and how to use them.

It’s possible that when people think about the archive’s resources, they think only of newspaper clippings and old photographs, and it is true that they have an extensive catalogue of both.

The Library has microfilm of local newspapers dating back to the 1800s, and a sizeable collection of actual paper clippings and photos, but there is also more than that.

Things such as old yearbooks from all of the schools in the city, maps, blueprints for familiar buildings, city directories, and historical records from businesses and organizations are all available to the public through the archives. Research technician and archive expert Stephanie Jeanes will be on hand at the session to talk about how the archives work and answer questions, and she will have all of the items that the archives has on the topic out for people to look through. Jeanes is choosing the session topics based on what sounds of most interest to the community, which is why there are two more sessions already planned. On Oct. 17 at 2:30 p.m., the session will be entirely about the military history of the area, focusing on Moose Jaw military personnel and battalions in World War II. On Nov. 16 at 2:30 p.m., session attendees will take a look at Moose Jaw’s architecture and the history of the oldest buildings in the city.

These sessions are a chance to be familiarized with the archives in a more public setting, and learn about the history of popular local topics. Jeanes usually sees people utilizing the archives for genealogical research, about a relative’s life, or to track down mention of family members in past documents.

She hopes that by hosting public information sessions, people will know more about what the archives can offer them. Aside from the free sessions that are scheduled, anyone can access the Library Archives by calling the front desk and making an appointment to visit. It often helps to let the technicians know what you’re looking for as well, as they can pull resources out for you or direct your search.

And for those just looking for some lowkey exploration of history, the archives sessions are the place to stop in.