I put a call out to my professional listserv today to crowdsource some ideas about going about ownership rights to an archive. What was recommended was that if the current custodian (that would be Seattle Central College) is willing to continue their care and preservation under the auspice of their collection policies, then it is best to let the collection remain in their care. It was also advised that we keep a detailed record of processing, including associated costs as to deter treasure-hunters from making claims, as they would need to reimburse costs.
Big thanks to the Society of American Archivists listserv conversations. And a special yay to Jim Havron from the John Abernathy Smith Heritage Center of the Tennessee and Memphis Episcopal Area, UMC who provided detailed information.
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