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

Customizing Retention Schedule Descriptions

Are the descriptions on your agency’s retention schedule lacking flair? Customizing records series descriptions can make your schedule easier to navigate and can increase clarity, helping your staff classify records properly. Here are some tips for writing custom series descriptions.  Background  Each state agency and public university in Texas must create a unique records retention schedule based on the records they create and maintain (Government Code §441.185). Local governments in Texas must either keep all records permanently, or prepare a records…

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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…

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…

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SLRM Customer Service Survey

Calling on all employees of Texas state agencies, local governments, and institutions of higher education! State and Local Records Management (SLRM) needs your help evaluating the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC). This survey is your opportunity to tell us how we’re doing. tsl.texas.gov/slrm/training/slrm-css25 Completing the survey should take you approximately two (2) minutes;…

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Texas Library and Archives Foundation Accepting Applications for $2,000 Scholarships for Library Science Students

The Texas Library and Archives Foundation has announced its annual Martha Wong Scholarship opportunity, as well as the new Mark Smith–Gloria Meraz Scholarship, for students in a Texas library/information science or school library certification program. Both scholarships will award a reimbursable grant of $2,000 that may be used for tuition or required textbooks. Through these awards, the…

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Remote Training for State Agencies!

We are excited to announce that we will be conducting free introductory records management classes via Zoom for state agencies on: These classes are free for government employees in Texas. Visit our training page for registration instructions. NOTE: Your registration may be delayed. We are reviewing and approving registrants. If you have any questions, please…

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SACCRIM – A group for records friends!

The State Agency Coordinating Committee, Records and Information Management (SACCRIM) is a group for records leaders to get together to discuss recommended opportunities, organizations, strategies, and more! SACCRIM is recommended by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) because it is a free opportunity to hear and discuss with one another your records program…