Information literacy, media literacy, technological literacy, digital literacy—these are all ways that we as information scientists serve as advocates and liaisons between users and information tools. Situated between a digital immigrant and a digital native, I have experienced the rapid rise and decline of many technologies. I aim to help dispel misconceptions about new technology, find ways technology can enrich information seeking, and always remain progressive about new frontiers. I task myself to constantly learn about new media in an effort to close the digital divide, educate, and inform.
From daguerreotypes to motion picture film stock to tiktok, humans have an innate urge to create visual depictions, responses, and celebrations of the world around them. I believe that an understanding of the technology and science behind emerging visual languages can inform preservation decisions.
As an archivist, access is paramount. Preservation is for naught if the objects are relinquished to unsustainable formats, behind paywalls, or in dark archives. This requires fighting censorship, pushing for digital privacy, and advocating for copyright reform.