Workshops

DHPSNY workshops promote interactive learning, networking, and collaboration. Offered free of cost to New York institutions, these programs address the needs of professionals and volunteers at institutions that manage unique library research materials and historical records, including libraries, archives, historical societies, and museums.

Presented throughout the state, workshops emphasize hands-on learning exercises and provide supplemental resources. See below for descriptions and registration for upcoming workshops.

Community archiving workshop at Weeksville Heritage Center in NYC.

Upcoming Workshops

Registration closes one week before each session.

As always, DHPSNY's workshops are presented free of charge for New York institutions. Space is limited.

Spring 2026
Understanding Risk to Protect Collections

Click Here to Register.

How do you decide what matters most when everything feels like a priority? This hands-on, full-day workshop introduces a practical framework for identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing risks to cultural collections. Designed for staff and volunteers at collecting institutions of all sizes, the session breaks down the risk assessment process into approachable, actionable steps.

Participants will learn how to identify key agents of deterioration, assess vulnerability across different types of collections, and translate observations into meaningful preservation priorities. Through guided exercises and real-world scenarios, attendees will practice evaluating risks and making informed decisions about where to focus time and resources for the greatest impact.

By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with tools, templates, and a clearer strategy for protecting their collections—whether they are caring for a historic house, a small museum, or a community archive.

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Presenter: Maddie Cooper, Owner and Preventive Conservator, M.C. Conservation Services

*Note: Registration closes one week before each session

Upcoming Dates and Locations

Summer 2026
Practical Digitization: Planning, Handling, Imaging

Click Here to Register.

This workshop covers best practices for safely handling and preparing collection materials for digitization. Participants will learn how to assess materials prior to digitization, identify common risks, and apply appropriate handling techniques for photographs, paper-based materials, and bound volumes. Through demonstration and hands-on practice, the workshop emphasizes how proper handling supports both preservation and access goals. By the end of the session, participants will have practical skills to reduce damage during digitization and improve the quality and consistency of digital outputs.

The session will also introduce practical approaches to planning digitization projects, providing an opportunity for participants to discuss their own projects and share strategies with peers. A dedicated segment highlights New York–specific digitization resources, including statewide platforms and regional support networks.

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Presenter: Kaitlyn Pettengill, Digital Archives Specialist, Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts

*Note: Registration closes one week before each session

Upcoming Dates and Locations

Fall 2026
Red Flag! Identifying Preservation Needs While Working with Collections

Registration Coming Soon

This hands-on workshop helps participants recognize common preservation issues or “red flags,” in paper, book, and photographic materials. Participants will learn how to identify signs of physical damage, environmental concerns, and handling risks, and how to determine when action is needed. Through guided examples and discussion, the workshop focuses on practical decision-making and understanding when to rehouse materials, improve storage conditions, or seek conservation treatment. By the end of the session, participants will feel more confident identifying issues and setting informed, manageable next steps for collections care.

Time:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Presenter: Kate Jacus, Preservation Education Specialist, DHPSNY

*Note: Registration closes one week before each session

Upcoming Dates and Locations

DHPSNY has hosted workshops on a range of topics. Past workshop topics have included:

  • Archival Basics
  • Preserving Photographic Collections
  • Fundraising for Preservation and Conservation
  • Audiovisual Preservation
  • Preservation Planning
  • Mold Prevention
  • Collections Processing
  • Disaster Response and Recovery
  • Paper Collections Care
  • Planning Community Archiving Projects