SMSU Archives & Special Collections: Assessing & Planning for the Future

FAIN: PG-280631-21

Southwest Minnesota State University (Marshall, MN 56258-3306)
Pam Gladis (Project Director: January 2021 to April 2023)

A general preservation assessment to help Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) determine the next steps needed to ensure the longevity of its archives and special collections. SMSU was founded in 1963 and opened in 1967 as one of the state universities of the Minnesota State System and was the first campus to be nearly barrier free to accommodate students with disabilities. The university has never had a collections preservation assessment completed. In addition to the consultant’s visit and report, the grant would support the purchase of data loggers to assist in the environmental evaluation of the spaces holding the collections. The project director would also attend an initial training session on disaster planning, as preparation for developing preservation and disaster plans. The collection of over 550 linear feet contains materials such as theater posters and playbills; university charters; architectural plans; art, music, and other fine arts posters; pictures and negatives documenting university life; and student newspapers. These are primarily used for research by constituents including university faculty, staff, administrators, students, scholars, and community members.

A preservation consultant will be hired to assess the management of SMSU's archival collections. The assessment would include studying light levels, developing plans for improving storage, assessing the conservation treatment needs of certain items, and providing advice and input on developing preservation and disaster preparedness plans.