Local government agencies receive grants to preserve local records


The Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA) within the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet has announced 10 recipients of more than $220,000 in Local Records Program grant funds to help preserve and manage local government records.

The Local Records Program helps to protect and make available records with continuing archival value and assists local agencies with records management through direct services, training and grant support.

“Preserving Kentucky’s local records for future use in an organized and accessible fashion is an important function of a transparent government,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “During the 36-year history of KDLA’s Local Records Program, about $25 million has been distributed across Kentucky in grants. If not for these local grants, many valuable records would be lost forever.”

KDLA has awarded 10 grants statewide totaling $220,238 in the first round of fiscal year 2021 Local Records Program grant funds. Funds are made available through fees enacted by the Kentucky General Assembly to preserve and provide access to local public records. Any local government agency may apply for this grant.

“Records from local agencies are valuable resources that need to be preserved,” KDLA Commissioner Terry Manuel said. “This program has provided many local agencies the means to support preservation and public access so records of historical value may be available for years to come.”

The first round of 2021 Local Records Program grant funds have been awarded to the following recipients:

• Bullitt County Sheriff – $30,000
• Edmonson County Clerk – $10,540
• Gateway Area Development District – $5,500
• Henderson County Clerk – $54,405
• Muhlenberg County Clerk – $25,600
• Nortonville City Clerk – $7,980
• Paducah City Clerk – $8,640
• Paducah Police Department – $33,529
• Trimble County Clerk – $18,320
• Union County Clerk – $25,724

With four regional administrators working with local officials, KDLA ensures professional archival and records management assistance in county and city offices, school districts, and health departments. Local Records Program grant funds have supported work in microfilming, preservation, equipment, automated indexing, digital imaging systems and codification of ordinances.

KDLA provides equitable access to quality library and information resources and services, as well as helps public agencies ensure that legislatively mandated documentation of government programs is created, efficiently maintained and made accessible. For more information on KDLA resources, programs and services visit https://kdla.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx or call 502-564-1702.

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