by Lisa Grimm

The Drexel University College of Medicine Archives and Special Collections on Women in Medicine and Homeopathy (to give the full title) is an experienced traveler. The entire collection was moved in 2004, again in 2006 and is preparing for its third (and, one hopes, final) move in 2009 (or possibly 2010, depending on how construction progresses). This semi-official blog, penned by the archivists and staff, will document the move (from all viewpoints) and the planning involved in getting all 4000 linear feet (and growing) in one place for the first time ever.

The good news is that after years of making do with space wherever it could be found, we will be moving into an entirely new building and that we have had a reasonable amount of input as far as how our space will function (fire supression! compact shelving! workspace! windows!), but we've also had to wear some unexpected hats - fundraiser, cheerleader, space planner - you name it. No doubt as the physical move approaches we will be donning further pieces of unfamiliar headgear, but our plucky little team hopes the rest of the archival world can learn from our experiences and inevitable mistakes along the way.

In the meantime, we continue to welcome researchers and look forward to the day when we don't have to apologize for some materials being offsite!