NBS1

National Archives and Records Administration

150px Official logo of the National Archives and Records Administration
Formation	1985
Headquarters	Washington, D.C., United States
Website	www.archives.gov

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is an independent agency of the United States federal government charged with the preservation and documentation of government and historical records. It is also tasked with increasing public access to those documents which make up the National Archives. NARA is officially responsible for maintaining and publishing the legally authentic and authoritative copies of acts of Congress, presidential directives, and federal regulations.

History

NARA was established in 1985 as an independent agency, although its origins date back to the establishment of the National Archives in 1934 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The agency was created to centralize federal record keeping and to ensure the preservation of important government documents.

Functions

NARA's primary functions include:

• Preservation: NARA preserves and protects the records of the U.S. Government, ensuring that they remain accessible to the public and future generations.
• Access: NARA provides access to federal records and information, facilitating research and education.
• Records Management: NARA assists federal agencies in managing their records, ensuring compliance with federal laws and regulations.
• Archival Research: NARA supports historical research by providing access to a vast collection of documents, photographs, and other records.

Facilities

NARA operates several facilities across the United States, including the main National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., the National Archives at College Park, and numerous regional archives and presidential libraries.

Significant Collections

NARA holds a wide array of significant collections, including:

• The Declaration of Independence
• The United States Constitution
• The Bill of Rights
• The Emancipation Proclamation
• Census records
• Military service records

Digital Initiatives

NARA has embraced digital technology to enhance access to its collections. The agency has digitized millions of records and made them available online through its National Archives Catalog.

Also see

• Library of Congress
• Smithsonian Institution
• Federal Records Act
• Presidential Libraries

References

• NARA History
• National Archives Catalog