The purpose of the Drake University Archives & Special Collections is to collect, digitize, and preserve important stories of Drake University’s more than 135-year history.

Primary sources — photographs, memorabilia, papers, letters, documents, records, letters, journals — all are candidates for our collections.

Below are policies and procedures that govern the operations of the Archives and Special Collections. These guidelines ensure the integrity and accessibility of our materials.

Procedures & Policies

Donation and Transfer Guidelines

Please fill out the Donation/Transfer Interest Form if you are interested in donating or transferring materials. An archivist will contact you to discuss the donation/transfer.

• If possible, please include an inventory of box contents with each box, including the title and date span of each folder (Inventory Template).
• If transferring digital files, please discuss the best procedure for transfer with an archivist
• Preparing materials for transfer
  • If possible, please remove folders from hanging files.
  • Include the sender's name and address.
  • Inform the archivist of the upcoming shipment, including number of boxes to expect.

Collection Development Policy

The Archives and Special Collections is responsible for the collection, preservation, management, and access of records of enduring value for research and reference use. To view the areas of collecting interest for the Archives and Special Collections please visit our Collection Development Policy section.

Forms & Templates

Donations and Gifts

• Donation/Transfer Interest Form
• Deed of Gift
• Inventory Template

Record Transfers

• Donation/Transfer Interest Form
• Analog Records Transfer Form
• Electronic Records Transfer Form
• Transfer Agreement
• Inventory Template