Re: ...Storage Method...
TofiBaba is right.
Make multiple copies on different storage media from different manufacturers. Make it a habit to sync data.
Actually, the strategy can vary with situation.
In my case, I write CDs. Most of my really important data consists of plain text. I write two sets of the data (all of it) every six months on CDs and waste the data sets older than two years. Currently each set of my important data requires only two CDs.
Also, a copy of the latest set is always kept on the PC in basement that has no means to connect to the Internet. One CD set is locked in the basement just in case a friend takes the other set from my bedroom, thinking it to be some MP3s 8) You never know.
I keep it all encrypted and I keep it in my custody. During my life, no one else can take care of my work better than me. No matter what agreement they sign. Nor does their storage media come from another planet.
Sometimes I feel blessed for even if I lose all of my CDs, I'm sure my brain can regenerate it, of course with some extra and unpleasant efforts. The only natural disaster I fear is if one day I become retarded. But then why would I care about that data? LoL
It takes about twenty minutes (just once in every six months) to write new CD sets and melt the old ones. This method is cost-effective, very reliable and easy to manage.
Machines are more reliable than men, machines (those that we have today) do not cheat.
Everything dies. It's natural.
Sleep well!