Preserving the UMC archival collection of kentucky wesleyan college [a preservation assistance grant from NEH will enable kentucky wesleyan college (KWC) library to take action to preserve the…

Preserving the UMC archival collection of kentucky wesleyan college [a preservation assistance grant from NEH will enable kentucky wesleyan college (KWC) library to take action to preserve the extensive united methodist archival collection that KWC accessioned upon the closing of several churches in western kentucky. The collection includes bishops' diaries, unique books, hymnals, church registries and records, and relics dating to the early 1800's. The grant will support the assessment of intellectual value and preservation risk, a comprehensive review of liabilities inherent in the physical storage environment, and the preparation of a disaster mitigation plan for KWC in collaboration with cultural heritage organizations in the owensboro, KY region. A project consultant will augment staff knowledge of preventive conservation best practices and help the KWC library enhance access and prepare for selective digitalization of the most valuable parts of the collection.]