The words "You Ask, We Answer" over two puzzle pieces labeled "Q" and "A" as well as the TSLAC logo.

Paper’s Emergency Function

The digital age’s promise of the modernization of information technology and machine learning comes closer with every update to technology, systems, and programs to better process and avoid human error. In the years of transitioning to more digital systems to improve efficiency, storage, and sharing, the one format that sticks around without the need for…

Stacked newspapers next to the words News You can Use and the TSLAC logo.

2026 Local Government Records Management Officer Meeting

REGISTRATION HAS BEEN CLOSED Calling all Texas local government records management officers and liaisons! You are cordially invited to the annual Local Government Records Management Officer meeting, organized by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC). This meeting will include presentations and Q&A on training, compliance, local schedule updates, and more! Please note: Please…

Classic blank nametag with "RMO...?" written in a marker handwriting font.

Name or Position? Designating a Local RMO

Are you a non-elected local government considering updating your RMO designation? This article will explain your options! Note: “Non-elected local government” refers to counties, municipalities, ISDs, and other local entities outlined in our article on local government status. This article does not apply to elected local officials or state agencies/public universities. Two Ways to Designate…

A gavel lies on its side atop a sound block on an off-white background.

Are Exhibits Records?

First, let’s look at the definition of an exhibit. According to Black’s Law Dictionary, an exhibit is “a document, record, or other tangible object formally introduced as evidence in court,” or “a document attached to and made part of a pleading, motion, contract or other instrument.” So, exhibits may be physical objects or documents, and…

A hand places a coral colored binder on a shelf full of light blue binders. Below are the words Remarkable Records and the TSLAC logo.

Maps, Plats, and Local Governments

Maps and plats play a huge part in how a municipality is laid out, zoned, developed, and built. Maps assist in navigation of the municipality, while plats establish the boundaries. Because these record types can seem similar, it is sometimes difficult for local government employees to identify an appropriate retention series on the Local Government…

Two people working on laptops.

Strategies for Developing Email Auto-Deletion Policies

How long should government entities in Texas keep email? It’s one of our most frequently asked questions, and like all our favorite questions here at TSLAC, the answer is, “it depends.” Though TSLAC has traditionally recommended the “sort and file” method, these days many agencies are hoping to simplify their operations by establishing an auto-deletion…