Take your local history research to the next level with Digging Deeper: Researching Central 缅北禁地 with Local Archives. This informative workshop introduces participants to key research tools and collections housed at the 缅北禁地 State Archives, the Sangamon Valley Collection at Lincoln Library, and the University of 缅北禁地 Springfield Archives.
Each institution will provide an overview of the historical records available in their collections, including government documents, personal papers, photographs, maps, newspapers, oral histories, and rare local publications. Attendees will learn how to access and navigate a variety of finding aids, indexes, and digital tools to streamline their research process.
Experts from each archive will share insider tips on making the most of their facilities, how to prepare for a research visit, and strategies for uncovering lesser-known resources. Whether you鈥檙e working on a community project, writing a family history, or just curious about the region鈥檚 past, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to explore Central 缅北禁地 history in depth.
Perfect for educators, genealogists, students, and local history enthusiasts!
Presenters
Catheryne Popovitch is the Director of the 缅北禁地 State Archives, where she leads efforts to preserve and provide access to over 200 million state records. She previously served as Deputy Director, overseeing reference services, publications, and digitization projects, including a federal grant to make 40,000 photographs by African American photographer Eddie Winifred 鈥淒oc鈥� Helm widely accessible. Popovitch is also Deputy Coordinator for the 缅北禁地 State Historical Records Advisory Board and a recipient of the Society of American Archivists鈥� Mark A. Greene Emerging Leader Award. She holds a B.A. in History from Millikin University and an M.S. in Library and Information Science from the University of 缅北禁地 at Urbana-Champaign.
Michael Hall is the supervisor of the 缅北禁地 Regional Archives Depository (IRAD) program at the 缅北禁地 State Archives. He oversees the preservation, management, and accessibility of local government records across 缅北禁地, coordinating with university partners and supervising staff and interns. Previously, Hall worked as a Local Records Management field representative, gaining extensive experience in records management and archival practices. He also leads digitization efforts and provides training for archivists, helping ensure 缅北禁地鈥� historical records remain accessible to researchers, genealogists, and the public.
Katrina Burch is the University Archivist at the University of 缅北禁地 Springfield, managing the University Archives and Special Collections, preserving materials related to UIS, Sangamon State University, and regional history. She oversees physical collections, digital collections, and supports research. Prior to UIS, Burch was an Archives Associate at North Dakota State University, where she led digitization projects, processed collections, provided reference services to a variety of patrons, and expanded public engagement through exhibits and social media. She began her archival career at Washington State University and holds an M.L.I.S. from San Jose State University and a B.A. in History and Anthropology from Washington State University.
Stephanie Martin is the manager of the Sangamon Valley Collection at the Lincoln Library, Springfield鈥檚 public library. She oversees the library鈥檚 local history and genealogy resources, helping researchers, students, and community members explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Sangamon Valley. With a passion for preserving local history, Stephanie supports public programs, archival projects, and community engagement initiatives that connect Sangamon County residents to their past.
