Mission Statement

The Smithsonian Institution Archives is the institutional memory of a unique American cultural resource and a steward of the national collections. In order to ensure institutional accountability and enhance public appreciation of a great national treasure, we are committed to serving the Smithsonian community, scholars, and the general public by:

• appraising, acquiring, and preserving the records of the institution and related documentary materials;
• establishing policies and providing guidance for management of the national collections;
• offering a range of reference, research, and records services;
• and creating products and services which promote understanding of the Smithsonian and its history.