Leesburg, VA (October 19, 2026) – Thomas Balch Library will host Archives Confidential: True Stories of Restricted Archives, an evening of conversation about what happens when archival collections contain materials that cannot be accessed by the public. The discussion is scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, at 6:00 p.m. in the Library’s lower-level meeting room (208 West Market Street, Leesburg).
The event brings together the public, archivists, librarians, museum professionals, historians, and others who work with restricted or sensitive collections to share their experiences and stories. Materials may be restricted from public access for a variety of reasons, including donor agreements, privacy concerns, legal requirements, sensitive content, preservation issues, unprocessed collections, or other circumstances.
No secrets will be revealed. Rather than disclosing information that must remain confidential, participants will discuss the stories surrounding these materials, including why access was restricted, how the situation was handled, what challenges arose, and how professionals balance their responsibility to provide access with their obligation to protect collections and the people represented within them.
The evening will offer an opportunity to pull back the curtain and reveal the decisions that usually happen behind the scenes. Through examples and informal conversation, attendees will explore questions of access, ethics, privacy, stewardship, and what it means when things are restricted. Everyone is welcome to join the conversation and is encouraged to bring a story, case study, or personal experience to share.
Pre-registration is required for this event. Please call 703-737-7195, email balchlib@leesburgva.gov, or register online.
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