Take your local history research to the next level with Digging Deeper: Researching Central Illinois with Local Archives. This informative workshop introduces participants to key research tools and collections housed at the Illinois State Archives, the Sangamon Valley Collection at Lincoln Library, and the University of Illinois Springfield Archives.
Each institution will provide an overview of the historical records available in their collections, including government documents, personal papers, photographs, maps, newspapers, oral histories, and rare local publications. Attendees will learn how to access and navigate a variety of finding aids, indexes, and digital tools to streamline their research process.
Experts from each archive will share insider tips on making the most of their facilities, how to prepare for a research visit, and strategies for uncovering lesser-known resources. Whether you’re working on a community project, writing a family history, or just curious about the region’s past, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to explore Central Illinois history in depth.
Perfect for educators, genealogists, students, and local history enthusiasts!
Presenters
Catheryne Popovitch is the Director of the Illinois State Archives, where she leads efforts to preserve and provide access to over 200 million state records. She previously served as Deputy Director, overseeing reference services, publications, and digitization projects, including a federal grant to make 40,000 photographs by African American photographer Eddie Winifred “Doc” Helm widely accessible. Popovitch is also Deputy Coordinator for the Illinois State Historical Records Advisory Board and a recipient of the Society of American Archivists’ Mark A. Greene Emerging Leader Award. She holds a B.A. in History from Millikin University and an M.S. in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Michael Hall is the supervisor of the Illinois Regional Archives Depository (IRAD) program at the Illinois State Archives. He oversees the preservation, management, and accessibility of local government records across Illinois, coordinating with university partners and supervising staff and interns. Previously, Hall worked as a Local Records Management field representative, gaining extensive experience in records management and archival practices. He also leads digitization efforts and provides training for archivists, helping ensure Illinois’ historical records remain accessible to researchers, genealogists, and the public.
Katrina Burch is the University Archivist at the University of Illinois Springfield, managing the University Archives and Special Collections, preserving materials related to UIS, Sangamon State University, and regional history. She oversees physical collections, digital collections, and supports research. Prior to UIS, Burch was an Archives Associate at North Dakota State University, where she led digitization projects, processed collections, provided reference services to a variety of patrons, and expanded public engagement through exhibits and social media. She began her archival career at Washington State University and holds an M.L.I.S. from San Jose State University and a B.A. in History and Anthropology from Washington State University.
Stephanie Martin is the manager of the Sangamon Valley Collection at the Lincoln Library, Springfield’s public library. She oversees the library’s local history and genealogy resources, helping researchers, students, and community members explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Sangamon Valley. With a passion for preserving local history, Stephanie supports public programs, archival projects, and community engagement initiatives that connect Sangamon County residents to their past.
