Preservation techniques vary, depending upon the condition and quality of objects being preserved. The majority of what we preserve comes in the form of documents and images. Our records are kept in acid free folders, plastic sheaths, and acid-free boxes, which stabilizes and prevents rapid deterioration caused by finger prints, foreign bodies, harmful light, etc. We keep these records in a climate controlled facility. Watch our video to learn more about "best practices" for preservation.
Here is a list of resources to help you preserve your church's history.
A Brief Guide for Archives of Congregations
This introduction advises congregations on how to begin an archives
of their own.
ELCA Archives Online Catalog
This resource offers information and reference on ELCA church-wide
"Records Retention Schedule for the Congregations of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America", published by the ELCA.
Maintaining the Parish Register
"Advice for Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America", published by the ELCA. You can also watch this video to learn more about the importance of maintaining your parish's register.
Disposition of Records
"Advice for Disbanding Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America", published by the ELCA.
"An Order for the Disposal of Deteriorating Bibles and Other Respected Publications", published by the ELCA.
General Preservation Techniques
Care, Handling, and Storage of Works on Paper
Care, Handling, and Storage of Photographs
Succinct overviews by the Library of Congress on how to preserve documents and photographs.
Personal Archiving: Preserving Your Digital Memories
Preservation tips on electronic resources by the Library of Congress.
What Do You Want to Preserve?
A comprehensive list of popularly preserved items, and details on how best to preserve them. Published by the National Archives.
If you can't find what you need here, please contact us.