By Jeanne-Marie Roberts, Roswell Historical Society/City of Roswell, Georgia
I had never been to Cincinnati, Ohio, and the 2025 AASLH/OLHA Annual Conference was just the reason to go. Thanks to the support of the Small Museum Scholarship, the 450-mile trip from Roswell, Georgia was made possible. The Queen City experience did not disappoint: from the affordable and easy TANK bus trip to and from the airport; the centrally located conference hotels; Graeter’s Ice Cream and Skyline chili; the picturesque Ohio River and the Roebling Bridge; amazing architecture and wall art to see between each downtown destination; and running in the same circles with historians, archivists, librarians and museum professionals. In these circles, there was an air of excitement, camaraderie, compassion, and determination; all of which left me invigorated and still so.
As I write this from the Roswell History Museum, I feel invigorated and empowered by the knowledge, inspiration, and support gleaned from this experience. I took note of statements woven throughout the conference, like “our work is more important than ever,” “lean on those who know,” “step outside our walls,” and “stronger together,” which are still echoing in my mind and driving me forward.
One of my goals for attending the annual conference was to share what I learned with colleagues from my home base circles. I am glad to report that I came back with a journal full of notes, tips, and ideas, along with a handful of business cards. The information covered in the “Disaster Planning, Response, and Recovery” workshop is something I am especially interested in discussing and potentially collaborating with neighboring archivists. Can we pool our resources? How can we support each other’s preparedness? Another session, “Commemorating the 250th in a Red State”, was just the brainstorming jump-start I was hoping for the U.S. Semiquincentennial. Not only did I get a list of ideas to present to my board, but I also gained a valuable new perspective on “stepping outside of our walls” to build bridges within the community.
I sincerely appreciate all those who contributed to this event: the organizers and committees, the presenters, the facilitators, the volunteers, and community partners. I imagine it was no easy feat! But it was proof that we are stronger together. Thank you, AASLH and the Small Museums Scholarship, for this rewarding experience!
Every year, AASLH’s Small Museums Committee raises money to bring small museum employees and volunteers to the Annual Conference. The scholarship covers the cost of registration and includes additional funds to offset travel and/or lodging expenses. The application opens in the spring and closes in June for that year’s conference scholarship. Learn more and donate to the scholarship fund here.
