Heather MacNeil

Heather MacNeil is a Professor at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Information, specializing in archival theory, recordkeeping histories, and the trustworthiness of records. Her work bridges archival science with cultural studies, examining how archives and museums construct knowledge through documentation practices.

Education:

• PhD, University of British Columbia (1995-1999)
• Master of Archival Studies, University of British Columbia (1984-1987)
• MA, Simon Fraser University (1980-1984)
• BA (Hons), University of Guelph (1976-1980)

Research Focus:

• Archival representation and authenticity
• Cross-disciplinary knowledge organization
• Social justice implications of records
• Evolution of archival description genres

Teaching:

• INF2185H: Libraries, Archives, Museums
• INF2146H: Trusting Records
• INF2174H: Histories of Records and Archives
• BKS2000H: Book History and Print Culture

Recent Scholarship Trends**

Her recent work emphasizes digital transitions in archival practices, historical analysis of recordkeeping systems, and the socio-cultural dimensions of archives. Collaborations with museums reveal interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge curation.

Awards & Recognition**

• James J. Talman Award (2015) for innovative archival contributions
• Hugh A. Taylor Prize (2010) for groundbreaking article on archival theory

Grants & Funding**

• SSHRC grants for projects on archives and social justice (2014-2017)
• Connaught Fund support for digital description research (2008-2010)

Lab/Team Affiliations**

Central contributor to the Faculty of Information's archival studies program, fostering collaborations across libraries, museums, and academic institutions.