What to Donate

We work closely with donors to identify materials of research interest that should be preserved so that the historical record can be fully documented. It is not possible for the Woman’s Collection to accept all materials that are offered. Some of the most common reasons include duplication of materials, condition, format, or subject areas in which we do not collect.

Women’s History – Donations of material related to women’s accomplishments and participation in American culture and society are welcome including photographs, films, documents, books, newspapers, articles, printed materials, drawings, journals, diaries, audio, interviews, artifacts, clothing and textiles. Subject and biographical files about women containing research, news clippings, articles, and photographs are always welcome.

• Personal and Family Papers – The personal papers of individuals and families are essential documents in the telling of our past. This means not just the papers of the well-known and prominent figures of our time, but also the farmers, laborers, educators, homemakers, and nurses. The following types of materials are always considered for donation: letters, diaries; speeches; lectures; photo albums; scrapbooks; memoirs; reminiscences; photographs, professional files, and geographic information.
• Organization Records – The records of our many and varied organizations are vital in documenting women’s engagement in our communities. Records that document the social, religious, political, and business involvement of American women are crucial to the historical record. The following types of materials are desired by the Woman’s Collection: articles of incorporation, constitutions, bylaws, meeting minutes, correspondence, planning documents, architectural records, legal documents, reports, memoranda, newsletters, directories, press releases, membership records, and research, biographical, and subject files.
• Publications – Desired publications include county, community, church, and business histories, family histories and genealogies, county atlases, business magazines, organization newsletters, aviation journals and magazines, all journals and magazines about and relating to women.
• Books –
• Media –
• Ephemera –

Please contact us with more detailed information about your materials and to discuss the donation process. 

For More Information:

All donations and gifts of material require a Deed of Gift or an In Kind Deed of Gift Agreement. We encourage all donors to read our Collection Development Policy and the following documents: A Guide to Donating Your Personal or Family Papers to a Repository and A Guide to Donating Your Organizational Records to a Repository. Some of the information in both of these brochures is from the following sources: Society of American Archivists; Collection Development Handbook for the Woman’s Collection; and the Women’s Collection Development Policy. 

To discuss donating a collection of personal papers, photographs, publications, books, or organizational records to the Woman’s Collection, contact us anytime. We are always ready to help you find the right home for your treasures. If you require any additional information about the Woman’s Collection and its programs to help you determine if we are the right repository for you, let us know and we will be happy to send you additional information and materials. Your support is greatly appreciated. We could not do what we do without the efforts, assistance, and support of our donors and friends. Because what we do today, makes a difference tomorrow.