The Texas Historical Records Advisory Board (THRAB), supported by the National Historical Publication and Records Commission (NHPRC), will fund up to four professional preservation assessments in the El Paso area and Far West Texas region during December 2024. This initiative aims to provide education and support to archival repositories in the state.
Archives, libraries, museums, or other cultural heritage repositories that preserve and provide access to historically significant archival collections are encouraged to apply. Special consideration will be given to Hispanic-serving institutions and underfunded repositories.
THRAB has contracted Rebecca Elder Cultural Heritage Preservation of Austin to conduct on-site reviews of facilities, environments, and collection needs. Each repository will receive a brief assessment report with short- and long-term recommendations. Areas of review include building and environmental conditions, general collection needs, storage and shelving, exhibits (if any), emergency planning, and security. The report will prioritize recommendations and provide essential documentation for future funding requests, including grant applications.
THRAB will review the final assessment reports and work with institutions to identify appropriate grants or other means to address the recommendations. THRAB will monitor progress and provide advocacy support.
Interested repositories are invited to apply online by October 14. Successful applicants will be notified by October 21 and will make arrangements with Rebecca Elder Cultural Heritage Preservation for assessments to be completed by the end of the year.
Applications can be submitted using the THRAB Preservation Assessment 2024 Application Form available online at https://bit.ly/THRAB_WTX.
The Texas Historical Records Advisory Board serves as an advisory body for historical records planning and supports efforts to preserve and provide access to archival collections throughout the state. Funding for THRAB is provided by the National Historical Publications Records Commission (NHPRC), the grant-making arm of the National Archives and Records Administration. The state archivist is appointed by the governor to preside over the nine-member board.
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to information needed to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing service capacity of public, academic, and school libraries; assisting public agencies in maintaining their records; and meeting reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.
