The State Historical Records Advisory Board (SHRAB) is the central advisory body for historical records coordination with each state and for National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC) state and local records projects within the state. [NOTE: "State" in this context includes the District of Columbia and the territories of the United States.]

SHRABs are authorized under federal regulations governing the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (36 CFR Chapter 12). In this capacity, their primary responsibilities are to:

Develop, revise, and submit to the Commission a state plan including priorities for state historical records projects; and to

Review all grant proposals to NHPRC for state and local records projects within the state and make recommendations on these proposals to the Commission.

Many SHRABs have moved beyond these advisory and coordination roles to develop and implement programs to address priorities for its state's historical records. A number of SHRABs have undertaken projects for statewide surveys, public awareness, education and training, and regrants supported with NHPRC funds. SHRABs may also seek non-federal funding in support of such programs. The report on the 2006 Survey of SHRABs describes the wide variety of activities that these Boards have undertaken and continue to pursue (see pp. 10-14).