An independent agency of the United States government responsible for preserving and documenting government and historical records. It ensures the long-term management, accessibility, and integrity of federal documents that define the nation’s history, rights, and governance.
Established in 1934, NARA maintains millions of records ranging from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution to presidential papers, military service records, and digital communications. It serves as the official custodian of America’s archival heritage, guaranteeing that public records remain accessible for accountability, research, and education.
Beyond preservation, NARA also oversees records management across federal agencies, guiding how documents—both paper and electronic—are created, maintained, and eventually transferred or disposed of. It enforces compliance with records laws to prevent loss or destruction of government information.
In the digital age, NARA’s mission has expanded to include electronic recordkeeping and cybersecurity initiatives. It manages the Electronic Records Archives (ERA) system, which preserves digital files in perpetuity. By combining archival stewardship with modern data governance, NARA ensures that the documentary foundation of American democracy remains authentic, secure, and accessible to the public for generations to come.
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