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About Us
Janette Garcia, Archivist, (956) 381-2990, janette@utpa.edu
What is the University of Texas-Pan American Archives?
An Archives is like a museum, but with papers instead of objects. We collect papers, such as files, letters, maps, and photographs from individuals and organizations which illustrate the history of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Like a museum, our purpose is both to educate and preserve. We clean and repair documents, and then organize and describe them so that you, the user, can view them.
Who can use the Archives?
Anybody can use the UTPA Archives. Please call (956) 381-2990 or e-mail (janette@utpa.edu) for an appointment before coming so that we have the appropriate materials ready and can ensure that there will be staff available to assist you.
Like a museum, our items are unique and many cannot be replaced if damaged, lost, or stolen. It is our goal to keep these documents safe for you and all future researchers. For this reason, we have guidelines and restrictions on use. Please read our User Policies page for more information about visiting the Archives.
What do we do in the Archives?
Preservation and Conservation
Typically we clean dust and dirt from papers, and remove all metal objects, such as paper clips and staples, to eliminate any rust. We also remove rubberbands which may tear the edges of the papers, and tend to turn brittle or discolor the papers they are placed around. Papers, especially those from early in the 20th century, were highly acidic, and thus may turn brown and brittle. Although it is impossible to restore the documents to their original states, we try to slow down the process by placing papers in buffered folders. Folded papers are unfolded so that they do not tear along the folds. If they are too large to keep in the box, they will be removed to our oversized boxes. A note indicating such is always placed in the folder that they have been removed from. Photographs are protected by placing them in clear envelopes.
Arrangement and Description
As much as possible we leave the documents in the order in which we receive them, or as it appears the original creators organized the documents.To help the researcher find the best documents, we create a Finding Aid which describes the collection as a whole, as well as a detailed description of what is in the folders and boxes. Occassionally, a particular item such as a letter or a photograph which may serve as a sample, or illuminate a particular theme or subject, or even just be really interesting, is also described. Some of these are digitized and made available through the Finding Aid as well.
I have things at home I want to keep in good condition.
Visit this "COOL" website: Conservation / Preservation Information for the General Public
I have stuff from my Grandparents I think you would be interested in.
We collect original documents, such as papers, maps, photographs, videos, and audio tapes that deal with the Lower Rio Grande Valley which help illustrate the history of the area. If your materials fall in that category please call or e-mail (see contact information above).
We do not collect museum items, such as clothing, tools, or toys. These have their own unique requirements for proper preservation and conservation. Please contact the area museums directly: