Resources for the General Public
We have more than 9 billion paper records, 30 million photographs and close to t3 million maps and charts, all stored in more than 30 buildings around the country.
These historical documents are available to you in our exhibits and research rooms. Some are on this web site.
Visit America's Historical Documents
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New to the Archives?
Presidential Libraries
Unique centers for the study of the American Presidency hold something special for everyone.
Watch an American Conversation Now!
Informal conversations between the Archivist and people who've shaped the dialogue about the interpretation and use of American heritage can be viewed now from your desktop:
Prologue: NARA's Quarterly Magazine
Fall 2009 Highlights:
Face to Face with History
A rare photograph of an African American Union surgeon is discovered among the pension records in the Natinal Archives.
"I Wish to Acknowledge"
Over the years many archivists have helped Pulitzer Prize–winning authors, and less prolific writers research their works. Learn the stories behind the books.
The Congressional Archives
The Center for Legislative Archives maintains the records of both houses Congress, and holds a few surprises as well.