Join Abigail Bainbridge, editor of Conservation of Books, in editing the world’s most-used reference source: Wikipedia.
A Wikipedia edit-a-thon or Wiki-thon is a collaborative event where people come together to improve and expand the online encyclopedia. For conservation professionals, it's a chance to share your knowledge, improve public understanding of our field, and gain new digital skills in this afternoon workshop, which will be Icon’s first Wikipedia edit-a-thon.
Take advantage of The National Archives’ conservation library and collaboration with peers to update, correct, add to, and reference information about conservation on Wikipedia. We will be supported by volunteers from Wikimedia to make a difference in the public perception of conservation and cultural heritage.
Why participate?
Help Boost Public Awareness of Conservation
Much of what we do and the material we work on is underrepresented or missing entirely on Wikipedia. Your expertise helps make conservation more visible and better understood by the public, students, journalists, and policymakers.
Reach Global Audiences
Wikipedia isn’t just for casual browsing—it's used to train AI models, inform search engines, and power voice assistants. Contributing accurate, well-sourced content helps shape how the world (and machines!) understand conservation.
Professional Development (CPD)
You’ll develop skills in research, writing for the public, citation, and critical evaluation of sources—all of which count toward continuing professional development. No prior experience is needed, and training will be provided.
Equipment and logistics: Participants should bring their own laptop. It is possible to edit on a tablet or phone but much more tedious. Before the event, attendees will also need to create an account for editing Wikipedia. An email with details on how to do this will be sent out in advance of the workshop to ensure all are prepared for the event