UW American Heritage Center Partners in New Roving Archivist Program

The University of Wyoming's American Heritage Center (AHC) is part of a new statewide initiative called the Roving Archivist Program (RAP) aimed at enhancing the management, preservation and accessibility of Wyoming's significant historical materials.

The project -- the first of its kind in Wyoming -- was developed in partnership with the Wyoming State Archives and the Wyoming State Historical Records Advisory Board (SHRAB).

RAP aims to strengthen archival practices across the state by providing crucial support and resources to local cultural heritage institutions.

Roving archivist Linda Sampson will travel to various repositories throughout the state, providing expert guidance on best archival practices. The program represents a concerted effort to support smaller institutions in handling, storing, processing and safeguarding their invaluable historical documents and artifacts.

"As the roving archivist, I'm looking forward to visiting institutions across Wyoming," Sampson says. "My goal is to share practical knowledge and tools that can help preserve the state's history. It's about working together to ensure Wyoming's stories endure and remain accessible."

Leslie Waggener, an AHC archivist, is a co-founder of the program.

"Linda is the boots on the ground, working directly with Wyoming's heritage institutions. The AHC, State Archives and SHRAB offer her the support to provide these organizations with the tools they need to preserve and share Wyoming's unique stories," Waggener says. "It's a team effort to help preserve our state's history right where it's been created and maintained."

RAP, which launched this month, was shaped by the needs identified in a preliminary survey of potential participating institutions.

Institutions interested in participating or learning more about RAP can find more information at https://rovingarchivist.wyo.gov/home.

An online event will be held later this summer to introduce Sampson and the program to Wyoming's cultural heritage institutions and others interested in RAP. Details about the event will be posted on the website.