The Ohio Preservation Kits Project is a collaborative initiative between the Ohio Historical Records Advisory Board (OHRAB) and the Ohio Preservation Council (OPC), designed to empower small cultural heritage organizations, such as historical societies, community archives, and smaller libraries, with essential tools and resources for preservation. Each kit includes a curated selection of basic conservation tools, product samples, educational materials, and references to support everyday preservation needs, such as:
- pH Pen
- Flat stapler remover
- Product samples
Funding for the kits was provided by National Historical Publications and Records Commission as well as a donation from the Ohio Preservation Council.
Kits:
40 preservation kits will be distributed on a needs-based, first-come, first-served basis.
Organizations not selected in the initial round will be added to a waitlist for a potential future distribution. Each kit also includes information about the generous partnering organizations that helped fund and support this initiative.
Educational Support:
Recipients of the kits will be invited to attend an educational webinar, where a preservation expert will walk through the kit contents, demonstrate proper use of included tools, and share best practices for collections care.
The session will also feature an open Q&A to address specific questions from participants.
Supplemental Resources:
A dedicated website will host additional resources, including:
- Downloadable guides and tool instructions
- Links to preservation webinars and training materials
- Contributor spotlights and promotional materials
- Opportunities to connect with other kit recipients and preservation professionals
Applications are due on October 31, 2025.
2025 Ohio Preservation Kit application
2025 Ohio Preservation Kit application_Fillable
Please send applications via email or U.S. mail to:
Tina Ratcliff
County Records & Information Manager
Montgomery County Records Center & Archives
117 South Main Street
P.O. Box 972
Dayton, OH 45422
937-496-6932
OHRAB and OPC are committed to building a sustainable, community-driven model for preservation support across Ohio.
