 (continued)
No matter the sacrifice, survival alone is not a satisfactory end result. We have the unique opportunity for achievement beyond recovery and restoration of normal operations. Our new organizational goals will emphasize the use of effective technology for preservation, maintenance, and provision of access to Amistad’s collections; strengthening of relationships with collections donors, financial partners, and other key constituents; and continuous development of excellent and innovative programs and outreach efforts.
As the Center envisions growth and progress, I am pleased to report the following activity for the first nine months of 2007: The markedly reduced staff assisted 279 researchers, including 77 graduate students, 59 faculty persons, and 82 undergraduates from 42 different universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Colombia, as well as 61 researchers not affiliated with universities or colleges. Our total number of researchers was up by 43% over last year. Staff retrievals during this period included 567 manuscript boxes, 191 book requests, 34 oral history interviews, 173 microfilm reels and 68 periodicals. This represents a 150% increase over the same period in 2006.
Amistad’s importance to post Katrina New Orleans is reflected in the recent surge of inquiries, especially from journalists and filmmakers. The Center recognizes the importance of documenting the Diaspora by identifying, collecting, and preserving significant documents and experiences for use by future researchers.
In the coming months, we look forward to frequent visits by scholars, researchers, and the inquisitive minds that will come through our doors to investigate primary sources that provide answers to a complicated and rich history of America’s ethnic minorities.
Lee Hampton
Executive Director
|
