Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my items private?
If you would like to donate items that you consider sensitive or private, we can look at the option of sealing the files for a specified amount of time. If that's the case, researchers will not be allowed to access the files until they are unsealed. They can not, however, be sealed indefinitely.
Can I Visit?
Sure! Our new reading room is comfortable for experienced researchers and amateurs alike. Whether you want to settle down and read Labrador books on our comfy couch, or get down and dirty with archival documents (with your clean/gloved hands, of course!), we're happy to help you out.
Can you digitize my materials?
Yes! Sometimes people would like to share their pictures, documents, audio-cassettes, or other archival items with us, but they aren't ready or don't want to give us the physical object permanently. That's okay, too. We have many digital collections that have come from such sharing donations. We can digitize negatives (35 mm, medium format, large format, and more), slides, photo prints, audio-cassettes, documents, and more! We will digitize and then give you your items back, plus the digital copies. All we ask is that you fill out a form giving us permission to keep them in the archive and outline your use preferences--can we use them in the magazine, share online, sell digital copies? Also, we will ask you for caption information about the photos, if you know it.
Do you take personal items only?
No--we would love to see records from current or defunct businesses, community groups and organizations as well as individuals and families.
How will my items be stored?
Your donated items will be stored in our climate-controlled, fire-safe archive and kept in archival quality storage. That means acid-free folders, polyester sleeves--whatever is best for the particular item in question. Our building is also protected by DBH Security.
Is Them Days stable?
Yes. We have stable operational funding, and we own our own building outright. We've been around for over 40 years now--we're not going anywhere!
Who uses your archive?
Our archive is used by university researchers, students, writers, genealogists, and your average, everyday person who is just looking for information, usually about their family.
Will I ever see my donated items again?
Our archive is open to the public and free to access. You and your family members will be able to access your items whenever we are open. We can also provide you with a digital copy or paper copy of your donation if you like.
Will you buy my Item?
Unfortunately, Them Days can not buy your item from you. We can, however, offer you a donation receipt for your original items that you may claim on your tax return.
What Should I Know About Your Reading Room?
Our reading room is open during our regular business hours (M-F, 8:30-4:30, closed for lunch from 12-1) and there are certain rules you should follow when using the reading room. Read them here. Don't let the rules scare you away though - they're plenty easy to follow!
