Records Management Unit
About the RMU
The Records Management Unit (RMU) is a department of the Massachusetts State Archives. The Supervisor of Public Records established the RMU within the Massachusetts Archives to ensure that Massachusetts government records are properly stored and preserved.
The RMU assists state, local, and county government entities with creating, managing, securing, and preserving the records they need to conduct business activities and protect the rights and obligations of citizens and government.
The RMU also offers support and guidance on records and record-keeping issues, such as disposition, storage, filing, data conversion, the legality of electronic data, the recovery of water-damaged materials, and contingency planning. Advising services are free to agencies.
Technical Assistance and Training
A team of record analysts at the RMU provide assistance with:
- Inventory and appraisal of records
- File management
- Selection of storage equipment
- Development of records disposal schedules (disposal plans)
- Inspection of vault and storage areas
- Analysis of record-keeping systems
- Appraisal and scheduling of records
- Implementation of schedules
Training Sessions, Workshops, and Presentations
The Records Management Unit also offers training sessions and workshops, either at the Massachusetts Archives or at your office. Analysts will plan an agenda tailored to the records management needs of your agency/department. Contact the RMU for information on scheduling a training or workshop at your next professional association meeting.
Analysts also frequently speak at meetings of professional associations, covering topics including:
- Records Retention and Disposition
- Safety and Security of Records
- Records Lifecycle
- Care and Handling of Records
- Public Records Issues
- Disaster Planning
Contact the RMU
Questions can be directed to the RMU by phone, email or fax.
Phone: 617-727-2816
Fax: 617-288-8429
RetentionHelp@sec.state.ma.us