Hello,

You are cordially invited to participate in a research study titled “Measuring Stress Levels in Archival Workers” (Northridge IRB-FY26-296). This study is being conducted by Gayle O’Hara, University Archivist at California State University, Northridge.

The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of how recent changes to workplace policies, priorities, and budgets (since January 2025) have affected stress levels among workers in archives and cultural heritage institutions. The survey focuses on the emotional impact of these changes, rather than how they have altered day-to-day job tasks or responsibilities. The survey includes detailed demographic questions, including regarding ethnicity, sexual orientation and disability status, in order to assess the impact, if any, on particular communities. 

This survey focuses on archival and cultural heritage institutions in the United States and I encourage anyone who currently works or has worked in one of these institutions to complete the survey.

The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary, and you may skip any question or discontinue without penalty. There is no direct benefit or compensation for taking this survey; however, your responses will help provide insight into the current stress levels among workers in archives and cultural heritage institutions. Some questions relate to job or institutional changes and personal stress and may feel sensitive, as may some of the demographic questions. No identifying information will be collected unless you choose to provide it.

If you experience distress while participating in this survey, please contact the free, national, 24/7 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The survey is linked below and will be open until October 04, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Gayle O’Hara at gayle.ohara@csun.edu .

Survey: Measuring Stress Levels in Archival Workers