South Dakota Connects to Collections Project
The South Dakota Connects to Collections project, funded principally by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, developed a comprehensive picture of the collections held in South Dakota museums, historical societies, archives, and libraries. These institutions hold collections of historic value, reflecting South Dakotans’ strong belief that history has an important place in modern life.

Using electronic surveys and on-site visits, information gathered from 167 institutions painted a clear picture of the challenges these institutions face in caring for the historic objects and archival material they house. The pressing need to improve collection care and preservation in the state is evident. This project provided vital information needed to focus future conservation/preservation training for the dedicated staff and volunteers working in collecting institutions across the state.

To all who participated in the survey for the South Dakota Connects to Collections project – THANK YOU. We are fortunate to have so many institutions and individuals who care about preserving the cultural history of South Dakota.

The IMLS report is now available. It may be Download the IMLS Report (please be aware, the file is quite large and download time may be extended depending upon your internet connection).

Download the brochure from the South Dakota Connects to Collections project.

Click the link for more information on the Dakota Collections Care Initiative (DCCI), a partnership between collections care professionals at museums, libraries and archives in North and South Dakota to improve collections care and emergency preparedness and response for small and mid-sized collecting heritage institutions across the two states.

Press Releases
North, South Dakota receive collections care grant from IMLS(6/24/2011)

Twelve Heritage Institutions in the Dakotas Selected to Receive Free Collections Assessments and Host Workshops
(3/27/2012