04/08/2026
Records & Information Management Month Tip #1 📁
To manage records effectively, it is important to understand the records lifecycle. A record is a living document, and knowing its stage helps ensure proper handling, compliance, and retention.
The 4 stages of the records lifecycle
1️⃣ Creation
This is when a record is created or received. It documents an activity, transaction, decision, or obligation.
2️⃣ Use
During this stage, the record is actively accessed, referenced, or updated to support daily work, legal requirements, or business needs.
3️⃣ Maintain
Once a record is no longer needed for frequent use, it is maintained securely, either physically or digitally, to protect its integrity and accessibility in accordance with retention requirements.
4️⃣ Final Disposition
At the end of its retention period, records are either transferred to an archive for long term preservation or securely destroyed in accordance with approved policies.
Understanding each stage ensures records are managed responsibly from beginning to end.
Follow along all month as we celebrate RIM Month and share resources to help safeguard South Georgia’s records and history.
Visit Us Fridays, 9 AM–4 PM
📍100 West Roosevelt Avenue, Albany, GA
Questions or appointments?
📍Call 229-432-6955
📍Email: Daniella Mendez, Archives Manager – [email protected]
Let’s keep South Georgia’s story alive—together.
