What We Collect
The University Archives collects records possessing historical, administrative, legal, and fiscal value in addition to those stipulated in the University Records Management policy. These include, but are not limited to:- Records of the College governing bodies and administrative units, such as Board of Trustees, College Council and its committees, Offices of the President, Provost, Vice-Presidents, Deans, and Directors.
- Records of the academic departments that document the activity and history of the department, such as meeting minutes, flyers, self studies, and grant proposals.
- College-produced publications.
- Biographical information of faculty, administrators, alumni, and staff, including correspondence, photographs, class notes and lesson plans, news clippings, .
- Publications and other creative work of faculty members during their tenure.
- Audiovisual materials and photographs from campus and alumni events.
- University memorabilia, and ephemera.
- Records of student organizations, including Websites, social media feeds, posters, meeting minutes, and other records and memorabilia.
- Theses or projects produced as part of the graduate degree requirement.
- Materials related to the history of the surrounding community, including maps, books, community organization records, photographs, and memorabilia.
- Materials related to the Benedictine order and abbey
- Materials related to Czech people and organizations in the U.S. and Illinois
- Materials related to the work, research, and achievements of alumni, community members, and area businesses
If you are interested in donating materials, contact the Archives & Special Collections Librarian. The library can only accept special collection donations after consultation with staff and with a legal Deed of Gift. All gifts and donations will be acknowledged in writing by the Director of Library Services. For more information on donations to the Archives & Special Collections, we recommend reading A Guide to Deeds of Gift published by the Society of American Archivists.
Appraisals and Assessing Value
While we cannot appraise gift materials for tax purposes, we can help you find a qualified appraiser. All expenses incurred in obtaining an appraisal must be borne by the donor. All gifts and donations will be acknowledged in writing, along with a copy of the Deed of Gift, by Archives & Special Collections Librarian.
