Tag Archives: World Archaeological Congress

CHM Practicum – WAC copyright assignment

Hi all,
Just another quick note to tell you about the work I have been doing as part of my cultural heritage management practicum with the World Archaeological Congress (WAC). I have been working with Ashley Sands as part of the Global Libraries Program, researching the current international copyright and intellectual property (IP) laws regarding electronic materials, e.g. journal articles, ebooks etc. The Global Libraries Program hopes to use this information to develop a digital academic database, which would ensure that all Global Libraries have the same materials and resources as high income libraries, thus, levelling he playing field of knowledge across the globe.
My main research question is:
What are the current international laws regarding copyright?
The sub-questions analyse in detail what is allowed and was is prohibited by these laws in regards to uploading personal collections, uploading the work of others and whether domestic laws have an impact on such arrangements.
It has been an interesting research task and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the Global Libraries Program creates as a result.
A.

CHM Practicum update: WAC mail out

Hi all,

Just a quick note to tell you about the work I have been doing as part of my cultural heritage practicum with the World Archaeological Congress (WAC). As you may remember, I have been working with Ashley Sands on the Global Libraries Program. Just to remind you of what Global Libraries Program is: The Global Libraries Program aims to develop the archaeological literary collections of low income institutions. By supporting these libraries, the program hopes to assist students and professionals of archaeology and cultural heritage management, by providing academic resources to help their study or work. There are currently 45 libraries across the globe.
My task as part of the practicum was to conduct a mailout of over one thousand books and journals to 43 countries. I did this mail out independently but surprisingly, it didn’t take that long to do. Ashley Sands provided me with a list that described which books had to be sent to each country, so from there I began organising the books. My methods were quite simple, organise the books, stuff them in an envelope, attach the neccessary documentation, seal, stamp etc. Any remaining books were sent back to Ashley Sands in Los Angeles.
Two main issues arose whilst completing this mail out. Firstly, where could I store the books and the envelopes during the prac? And how were we going to pay for postage? I stored most of the books in the Map Room and in Hum 112. I also used these spaces to organise the books and prepare the packages. The issue of postage is yet to be resolved. I was allocated a postage budget but the total cost of postage far exceeded what I was allocated. I guess I’ll have to keep to posted on what happens with that.
Hope you’re all well and good luck with exams and assignments!
A.

CHM Practicum with the World Archaeological Congress – Semester 1

Hi all,

As part of my CHM practicum I am working with the World Archaeological Congress (WAC). I will be working within the Global Libraries Program, maintaining the Global Library at Flinders Uni and helping out the Global Libraries Program Committee.
The Global Libraries Program aims to develop the archaeological literary collections of low income institutions. Supporting such libraries will assist archaeological and cultural heritage management students and professionals to undertake and excel at their study and work. There are currently 50 libraries from 40 different countries receiving donations.
My first task with the committee was to research the possibility of opening a Global Library in Gaza. This consisted of researching the area and understanding the current academic needs and limitations. I investigated this by tracking down local archaeologists for their views/opinions of the program, their need for a library, as well as community groups and universities (again to assess academic needs and limitations), and trying to find a safe location for the library itself. My second task with the Global Libraries Program is to research international copyright/intellectual property laws, to see whether Global Libraries are legally able to upload and distribute journal articles, e-books and other academic materials throughout their libraries, without infringing any international or domestic copyright laws. This has been an interesting task!
I am really happy to be working with WAC. I hope that my work can contribute or be helpful to WAC in some way. What I hope to gain from this practicum is some insight into how an international organisation such as WAC functions, how a program such as the Global Libraries Program can aid and impact global communities, and overall gain some workplace experience and improve my research skills.
If you’re interested in finding out more about WAC or the Global Libraries Program, visit http://www.worldarchaeologicalcongress.org/.
Good luck with your studies!!