RBMS 2019 Conference

Landing an archives and special collections job may feel like the end of all need for planning and strategizing in one’s career. However, as our working lives evolve, whether through retirement, moves to new institutions or positions, or for shorter-term pauses such as family-related leaves, transferring of responsibilities to junior colleagues, research leave, or medical leave, planning ahead can make these transitions much smoother. So, how does one plan for these kinds of challenges and opportunities, and the adjustment periods into and out of them?

Building on the last two years of successful participatory sessions around working lives, this session will serve as a bookend in the “Work of … Work” trilogy, providing a space for discussion around the very real, yet rarely spoken of issues related to stopping, pausing, and transitioning out of work.

Aimed at all levels of professionals, the session will include brief remarks from a panel of speakers, acting as session leaders, who will start the conversation by providing insight into their own experiences. Following this introduction, participants will break into smaller groups around their area(s) of interest, allowing closer engagement and discussion, followed by a wrap-up where final thoughts can be shared with the entire group. Topics of conversation will include: easing transitions for those dealing with family planning, succession planning, and leaving senior roles. Participants will be welcome to move between groups at specific points, and a facilitator will visit each section throughout the discussion period to enable smooth transition and time-keeping.