They judge the historical importance and value of documents. They also decide which records should be shown and which should be kept. Archivists maintain the records in the order the creator left them. They must create an organization system that allows them to access these records. Archivists often specialize in an area of history or technology so they can better determine what records should be kept.
Conservators examine, repair, and preserve museum objects.
They coordinate the workers who take care of the objects. Conservators do large amounts of historical and archaeological research. They may use x-rays and special lights to examine objects and decide what treatments are needed. Conservators usually specialize in treating one type of item, such as paintings or sculptures. Museum technicians help curators and conservators.