What is International Archives Day?

International Archives Day is held every year on June 9 and is recognized worldwide. The purpose of this day is to highlight the vital role archives play in safeguarding society’s collective memory and providing access to reliable information. Archives contain documents, records, images, and data that help people, organizations, and governments understand their past and make well-informed decisions for the present and future. Without archives, important knowledge would be lost, and stories from individuals or communities could disappear over time. International Archives Day draws attention to these risks and invites the public to see archives as living resources, not just storage rooms for old papers.

This day is marked by a variety of activities in many countries, with archives opening their doors for tours, exhibitions, and special events. The goal is to encourage people to explore what archives hold and understand how these collections shape history and support justice. Archivists use this day to show that their work is about more than preservation; it is also about serving the public and ensuring information is accessible. Communities often use International Archives Day as a reason to reconnect with their own local or family histories. Every year, more organizations participate, making the day increasingly visible in the public eye.

History and Origin

International Archives Day was created in 2007 by the International Council on Archives, an organization dedicated to supporting archival work across the globe. The choice of June 9 was intentional, as it marks the anniversary of the council’s founding in 1948. This observance was established to increase public awareness about the value of archives and to celebrate the people who dedicate their careers to managing and protecting these records. Before this day existed, the role of archives and archivists was often overlooked or misunderstood by the wider public.

Since the first International Archives Day, participation has grown rapidly. Hundreds of institutions now organize their own events and campaigns. Archives from every continent contribute unique perspectives, sometimes focusing on regional themes, urgent social issues, or technological innovation. These collaborations help bring different voices together, creating a sense of unity in the global archival community. Many institutions also use this day to launch new collections or share research projects with a broader audience.

Professional debates are another key feature of this observance. Archivists and information specialists discuss challenges related to digital preservation, access rights, and ethical questions. These conversations often result in new strategies for recordkeeping and sharing knowledge. By encouraging reflection and innovation, International Archives Day remains a dynamic and evolving tradition.

Who participates in International Archives Day?

• Archivists and historians: These professionals organize tours, lectures, and public events to share rare items or explain archival work in detail.
• Educational institutions: Schools and universities use the day to teach students about research, primary sources, and the importance of critical thinking.
• Journalists and researchers: These groups rely on archives for fact-checking and investigative projects, and often highlight their findings on this day.
• Genealogy and heritage groups: Families and clubs use archives to explore ancestry, local history, or hidden stories that are otherwise hard to find.
• Community members and visitors: Many archives offer open houses and special activities to encourage people of all ages to discover archival collections.

Slogans and Themes

Slogans for International Archives Day often focus on openness, memory, and trust. Common themes include “Archives build bridges” and “No future without the past,” both of which are designed to be easy to understand for a wide audience. Campaigns sometimes feature special topics, such as digital preservation, climate archives, or justice through records. The messaging always aims to connect archives to real life, showing how these collections touch everyday experiences. By keeping language simple and welcoming, campaigns invite everyone to join in, whether they are experts or complete newcomers.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Blue: Represents trust and knowledge. It is frequently used in event banners and digital campaigns to suggest credibility and professionalism.
• Gray: Suggests paper, documents, and secure storage. This color appears in logos and materials to reflect the traditional side of archiving.
• White: Stands for openness and neutrality. White backgrounds are common in visual campaigns, emphasizing transparency and clarity.

Symbols

• Folder or file icon: A classic sign for documents and archival records, symbolizing organization and preservation.
• Key: Represents access to information and the unlocking of history. Keys appear in posters and social media graphics to show the value of open archives.
• Timeline: Shows the long historical perspective that archives provide, and is often used in infographics and event branding.

Patterns

• Rows of boxes: These visuals represent archive storage and order. They appear on websites, flyers, and posters.
• Scans and pixels: These patterns highlight the move to digital preservation and the importance of new technology in archiving.
• Fragments of handwriting or stamps: Add authenticity and a direct link to original sources, making the past feel close and tangible.

Most used hashtags

• #InternationalArchivesDay
• #OpenArchives
• #PreserveHistory
• #DigitalArchives
• #MemoryMatters

How do you celebrate International Archives Day?

• Visit an archive: Many institutions host open days, guided tours, or special exhibitions. This gives people a rare chance to see behind the scenes and discover unique documents.
• Explore online collections: Digital archives provide easy access to records, photos, and stories. Anyone with an internet connection can take part in the day by browsing online.
• Join a workshop: Learning how to search for records, care for documents, or use archival materials for research helps people appreciate the work of archivists.
• Attend a lecture: Experts give talks on important discoveries, new projects, or current challenges in the world of archives. These sessions are often interactive and encourage discussion.
• Share your story: Community members are invited to contribute personal documents, images, or memories. This expands the richness of archives and strengthens the bond between the institution and the public.

Why is International Archives Day important?

International Archives Day reminds people that archives matter for everyone, not just for historians or officials. When archives are open and accessible, they help people learn, understand the world, and make better decisions. These collections support evidence-based research, honest journalism, and informed debate. Reliable archives also protect people’s rights, keep leaders accountable, and build trust in institutions. By making history visible and available, archives create opportunities for progress and reconciliation.

The day also celebrates the skill and dedication of archivists who work to protect, organize, and share information. Their expertise is needed in government, education, media, and every field that depends on facts and records. As the world changes and digital risks increase, the need for strong archives grows even more. International Archives Day makes clear that preserving me