Brief history

Archives play a crucial role in our society by preserving and protecting important documents, records, and materials that document our history, culture, and heritage. They are repositories of knowledge that provide access to information and understanding of the past. The first archives were established in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where records were kept on papyrus and clay tablets. The modern concept of archives as we know them today began to take shape in the 18th and 19th centuries with the establishment of national libraries and archives. The National Archives of the United Kingdom was established in 1838, making it one of the oldest archives in the world. In the United States, the National Archives and Records Administration was created in 1985 to centralise the management of federal records and archives.

How to celebrate

There are many ways to celebrate National Archives Day. Here are a few ideas:

1. Visit a local archive: why not take the opportunity to visit a local archive and learn more about its history and collections? Many archives offer free tours and educational programs.
2. Donate documents: if you have old documents or records that are no longer needed, consider donating them to a local archive. Your contribution can help preserve important historical information.
3. Learn about archival techniques: why not take an online course or attend a workshop to learn more about archival techniques and best practices?
4. Share on social media: use social media to share information about National Archives Day and encourage others to join in the celebration.

National Archives Day

Interesting facts

• Did you know that the oldest surviving manuscript in the world is the Codex Sinaiticus, which is kept at the British Library in London?
• Archives are not just limited to physical documents; they also include digital records and data.
• The National Archives of the United Kingdom is responsible for preserving over 30 million documents and records.