Getting to Know Kaylee Swinford, Instruction and Collections Archivist

by UB LIBRARIES

Kaylee Swinford has found her calling connecting people with history. As the instruction and collections archivist in the University Archives, she works to create an approachable space where students and researchers can discover the rich stories preserved in UB's Special Collections.

“I grew up just outside of Boise, Idaho, in what was then a small country town called Kuna. From a young age, I had a real love of sharing stories and information — I was the kid reading aloud to classmates during library visits, recommending books to anyone who would listen and spending every spare moment in the library (even accidentally getting locked in once — long story!). That love of discovery and sharing knowledge has carried through to the work I do today.”

“I received a bachelor's degree in communications and in the history of art and visual culture from Boise State University. I then earned my master's degree in library and information science from the University of Iowa, where I also completed certificates in book arts studies and in special collections librarianship.”

“I was drawn toward working with UB because of the rich archival collections that document not only the history of the university but also the broader Buffalo community. The opportunity to engage with such diverse and meaningful materials was very exciting to me. Since joining UB, I have loved getting to explore the collections and learning about the area's history through the materials themselves.”

“As the instruction and collections archivist, my role centers on connecting students and researchers with the resources available in the archives. I process and describe archival collections and provide primary source instruction sessions that help users engage with archival materials in meaningful ways. My goal is to make the archives a welcoming and enriching space for all who use it.”

“What I enjoy most is helping to remove barriers and increase comfort for users interacting with archival materials. I know that visiting a special collections space can sometimes feel intimidating, so I love being able to create experiences that make archives feel approachable, engaging and fun. It's incredibly rewarding to share the excitement and value of archival work with others.”

“Outside of work you could typically find me exploring estate sales, antique stores or catching live music around town. I love all things kitschy and campy and have had a very delightful time exploring all the unique things to find in the area.”

Whether you're a student working on a research project or a community member curious about the history of the University at Buffalo and the surrounding region, Kaylee welcomes you to visit the University Archives. She’s always happy to help!