Library of Virginia highlights archival transfers, preservation work and new remote-reference services

At the Jan. 12 meeting of the Library of Virginia Board, State Archivist Greg Crawford outlined recent work by Government Records Services, including the transfer of Governor Youngkin’s records to the Library and preservation activity conducted through the CCRP program. Crawford also recognized staff member Teshawna Threat for receiving the 2025 Member of the Year award from the Virginia Association of Government Archives and Administrators.

Crawford said consulting staff traveled more than 6,500 miles identifying more than 900 items for preservation under CCRP. Dale Neighbors, Interim Director of Manuscripts & Special Collections, noted registrar Alicia Starliper’s work closing the Art Experience at the Executive Mansion and transition work with the new administration.

Chief of Researcher Engagement Sarah Falls announced two new public-service initiatives: LibAnswers, which will track and analyze requests for assistance to inform collections and outreach decisions, and virtual reference appointments led by archivist Courtney Thompson to broaden remote access to LVA collections. Falls also reported that the VA250 “Top 20 Foundational Documents” booklet has been popular, with nearly all 7,500 copies distributed statewide.

Pia Trigiani, president of the Library of Virginia Foundation, and Executive Director Scott Dodson reported strong progress on fundraising and invited board members to the Collections Up Close event on Feb. 19.

The meeting did not include formal preservation approvals; the updates provide context for ongoing archival work, outreach and donor engagement.