Exemption for Archived Web Content

Web content that meets all of the following four requirements is considered “archived web content” that does not need to meet the accessibility standard set forth in the Administrative Policy on Accessibility of Digital Content and Information Technology (“the Policy”):

• the content was created before April 24, 2026 or the content reproduces paper documents or the contents of other physical media (audiotapes, film negatives, and CD-ROMs for example) that were created before April 24, 2026;
• the content is kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping;
• the content is kept in a special area for archived content; and
• the content has not been changed since it was archived.

Old web content that does not meet each of the above-described requirements must meet the accessibility standard set forth in the Policy, unless it falls within another exception to the Policy.

When is web content “kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping”?

Web content may be considered to be kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping when: 1) it is kept for one of these purposes; 2) it is not being used in a current University program or activity; and 3) it does not provide current information about University policies, programs, or activities.

To be considered archived web content, web content must generally be historic and outdated. Web content is not considered to be kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping when it is being reposted, linked to, or used as content in current courses, programs, or activities.

For example, a library may have both archived and non-archived web content related to the University’s campus geography. A current map of the University is not likely to be considered to be kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping. However, historical maps of the University in the library’s collection may be considered to be kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping. However, if the library included those historical maps in a current exhibit, those maps could no longer be considered archived material and would need to be made accessible. 

How is web content "kept in a special area for archived content"?

Archived web content must be organized and stored in a dedicated area or areas clearly identified as being archived.

Responsible individuals and units can decide how to organize archived content. For example, a responsible individual or unit may wish to create separate webpages to store only archived web content. In other circumstances, a responsible individual or unit may wish to clearly identify that a section on a particular webpage contains archived web content.

Archived web content must be clearly identified so that disabled individuals can understand when there is content that they may not be able to access without requesting accommodation.

For example, a responsible individual or unit could use the following language to explain that a certain webpage consists of archived web content: “This webpage only includes archived web content, which may not meet accessibility standards. To request content in an accessible format, contact [insert email address].” This language should be noted on the website where the archived web content is located. This language should not be placed on the archived web content itself, as the content must remain unchanged to qualify for the archived web content exemption.

Archived web content cannot be altered or updated, even to fix typos or make minor edits, after being archived. Web content that it altered after the date of archival is not eligible for the archived web content exception and must meet the Policy’s accessibility standard.

The responsible individual or unit must provide the individual with a means to effective communication, an accessible alternative format, or an equally effective accommodation to enable equitable access to the digital content and information technology.

In this circumstance, the responsible individual or unit does not need to replace the archived web content with an accessible version unless the content is being brought back into current use.