August 12, 2014
State archives have an essential statutory role in each state and territory in the United States that is fundamental to the effective and transparent operation and management of government. State archival programs ensure preservation of records that document functions and actions of government; maintain public accountability and support transparency; protect and support the rights of the individuals; furnish public access to government records, and provide evidence of the past to support the work of government and the interests of it citizens.
The statement has been endorsed by the Society of American Archivists and the Regional Archival Associations Consortium.
This document identifies minimal criteria that should be supported by state and territorial governments and includes useful resources to help agencies meet the criteria.
Approved by the CoSA Board of Directors August 12, 2014; amended August 11, 2014; resources added April 5, 2018.
The inclusion of any resource in the CoSA Resource Center does not imply a recommendation or endorsement of the resource by CoSA. Any views or opinions presented in the resource comments are solely those of the author and do not represent the views and opinions of CoSA