When AGU was preparing to become an online publisher, the Union formally recognized its archival obligation to the research community and made a firm commitment to the protection and adaptation of its electronic publications for future use. With advice from its Information Technology Committee, AGU established standards for file formats and software that would make it possible to meet this commitment. The Committee also provides ongoing technical guidance so that AGU can migrate its electronic archive as technologies change. The AGU Council established a Perpetual Care Trust Fund in which monies are put aside for the proper care of the electronic archive.