Policies

The Archives of the Archdiocese of Seattle provides assistance for requests relating to the history of the Catholic Church in Western Washington, reference access to general archival holdings, and answers any questions and concerns relating to preservation of the history of the Archdiocese.

Before requesting records and other research, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following policies. This will expedite most inquiries.

Policies for Researchers Policies for archives researchers, including general guidelines, photo handling procedures, use and access restrictions, duplication and fee schedule, and quotation and publication requirements.	View
Sacramental Records Policy and Request Policies concerning the Sacramental Records kept in the Archives and instructions for requesting a record	View
Transcript/Student Records Policies concerning the issuance of transcripts from Archdiocesan institutions, including: St. Thomas and St. Edward Seminaries, Kenmore; Assumption School, Bellingham; Blessed Sacrament School, Seattle; Immaculate Conception School, Seattle; Sacred Heart, Seattle; St. Anne, Seattle; St. James Cathedral School, Seattle; St. Mary School, Seattle; St. Patrick School, Seattle; St. Ann, Tacoma; and St. Mary Academy, Toledo	View
Records Retention Schedule for Parishes & Faith Communities A records classification guide for parishes and faith communities within the Archdiocese of Seattle.	View
Records Retention Schedule for Archdiocesan Catholic Schools A records classification guide for Archdiocesan Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Seattle.	View
Acquisition Policy Policies outlining what records and materials the Archives will acquire and the conditions which affect their acquisition	View
Deaccession Policy Policies governing the formal removal and disposition of records and other materials from the permanent holdings of the Archives	View