Archivist how-to

How to Accept a Donation of Papers

Good donations start with clear agreements.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good donations start with clear agreements. In short: meet; review; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Meet the donor.

  2. Review the material.

  3. Check it fits your collecting policy.

  4. Discuss rights and access.

  5. Sign a deed of gift.

  6. Accession the materials.

Safety reminders for archivists

  • Lift boxes safely
  • Handle mold and pests carefully
  • Use gloves for photos
  • Protect sensitive records

Finding aid · Provenance · Original order · Appraisal · Accession · Processing: see the full archivist glossary.

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