Processing in Practice:
A Hybrid Lunch & Learn with CLA Interns

In this hybrid lunch and learn program, our spring archives interns from Simmons University discussed their experiences processing CLA collections during the spring 2025 semester.

Rebecca Arabian discussed processing her first collections as a Library and Information Science student, which include the St. Mark’s Social Center in Roxbury and the Leyden Congregational Church in Brookline. She shared how holding, examining, and reorganizing these materials has given her a new way of engaging with the past.

Olivia Murphy shared how experiential learning at the CLA has enabled her to learn ArchivesSpace and employ DACS to process two separate collections: the Salem and Mariner’s Church records, a small Boston church, and the Diversity Club records, a club for the women who worked at 14 Beacon Street.

Rebecca and Olivia’s presentations also provided glimpses into some of the unique materials they discovered while processing these collections during the spring semester.

SPEAKER BIOS

Rebecca Arabian is an MLIS student at Simmons University. She has enjoyed working with local church records this semester, which have provided her with wonderful views into the rich history of the Boston area.

Olivia Murphy is an MLIS student at Simmons University. She is an avid lover of history, books, and Boston, and has been grateful for the opportunity to work at the Congregational Library & Archives this semester.