Ask the Archivist: My department has records to send to the Medical Center Archives. How should we pack them?
The Medical Center Archives purchases acid-free boxes to store departmental records. Please contact the Medical Center Archives (383-2653 or email us) to request boxes. It usually takes two of these boxes to pack one full file drawer. You should fill the boxes to the point that the folders do not slouch, but can still be removed easily. Hanging folders do not fit well in the boxes and should be avoided. The Archives kindly asks that you return any unused boxes. A few tips for box and lid assembly: Follow the instructions printed on the box. You do not need any additional materials (including tape) to assemble the boxes. When assembling the lids, look for the word "IN" punched into one of the sides. This is the side that is meant to face the inside of the box. The lids tend to tear if they are assembled improperly.
Do you have a question for “Ask the Archivist!”? Submit your question to dumc.archives@mc.duke.edu.