Save the Good Stuff. Diaries, correspondence, manuscript materials, photographs, scrapbooks, organizational records, unique artifacts and distinctive clothing such as queer t-shirts all can help historians and curators document GLBT lives and communities. You don't have to be famous; all of our stories matter.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place. Keep your personal papers safe for the future by protecting them from heat and moisture. An attic, garage or basement is often the part of a home where there's storage space -- but those are frequently the hottest or dampest places, too. Think twice before storing your archives there.

Do Basic Conservation. Some simple steps will help prevent damage to your personal papers: Remove rusting paper clips and staples; remove rubber bands, which are likely to decay; avoid using tape, which can cause stains; place your papers and photographs in acid-free folders and archival albums.

Identify Your Collection. Be sure to clearly identify your personal papers: Label the boxes and name the file folders in ways that will help future researchers understand the contents -- and consider writing a statement outlining key points in your life to help historians understand who gathered the materials.

Label Your Photographs. Whether you have old-school prints or new-school digital photos, be sure to provide caption details: Names of the people and places shown, the date the photo was taken and a brief note on why the picture is important. Those details will help future researchers understand and use your photos.

Plan Your Donation. Before donating your personal papers, contact the archivist. The Historical Society can advise you on what we're eager to acquire and what might find a better home in another institution. And be sure to donate your materials during your lifetime -- or clearly specify the donation in your will.