Archivist Toolkit
A comprehensive five-part guide for congregations preparing to assess, plan, and transfer their archives to HARC — preserving irreplaceable collections for future generations.
Women religious archives are primary sources for American women's and church history. They document education, healthcare, social justice work, leadership, and daily life. These collections preserve the legacy of Catholic sisters and provide essential material for scholarship, teaching, and community memory.
Collections Preserve
Stories of educational pioneers and healthcare professionals. Advocates for social justice and civil rights. Service to marginalized communities. Leadership within the Church and broader society.
Archives in Transition
Irreplaceable collections need long-term stewardship. Congregations have legal, ethical, and spiritual responsibilities to safeguard their cultural heritage. Thoughtful transition planning ensures preservation and accessibility for future generations.
The Heritage and Research Center at Saint Mary's (HARC) provides a permanent professional home for women religious archives.
HARC offers: Climate-controlled, archival-standard storage; professional archival staff and long-term preservation; research access and online discovery platform; respect for donor restrictions and congregational intent.
Click each section to learn more. Every congregation is unique — adapt to your situation, timeline, and resources.
Ready to Begin?
Start with Part I to assess your archive, or jump directly to the resources and templates. HARC's team is available to walk you through every step of the transition process.