Online Platforms for Communication and Connection
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has embarked on a mission to make its vast collection of historical documents more accessible to the public, leveraging partnerships with tech giants and digital platforms.
One of the most notable collaborations began in 2006 with Google, aiming to digitise and offer NARA's video collections online. This strategic move allows individuals worldwide to view rare films from the comfort of their homes, transforming the archives into a virtual treasure trove of history.
In January 2007, NARA launched a pilot project with Fold3.com (formerly Footnote), with the goal of digitising approximately 4.5 million pages of historic documents. This initiative makes records previously accessible only in original or microfilm format available online, thereby extending the reach of NARA's archives beyond traditional boundaries.
Another significant partnership was forged in July 2007 with CreateSpace, an Amazon.com subsidiary. This collaboration made the National Archives’ Universal Newsreels from 1929 to 1967 available for purchase digitally. The partnership also included providing NARA with digital reference and preservation copies of these films, ensuring their longevity and preservation.
These public–private partnerships reflect NARA's ambition to become an "archive without walls", using online platforms and digital technologies to enhance access and preservation of archival materials.
While there is no direct information indicating recent agreements specifically with social networks like Facebook or Twitter, NARA actively uses social media and Web 2.0 technologies for public communication and engagement.
The 10th Archivist of the United States, David Ferriero, served from 2009 to 2022, overseeing many of these digital initiatives. Other notable entities associated with NARA include the Center for Legislative Archives, the National Archives at New York, Philadelphia, and Riverside, and the Federal Register.
In addition, various foundations associated with U.S. Presidents, such as the Roosevelt Institute, The Truman Library Institute, The Eisenhower Foundation, The John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, The Richard Nixon Library And Birthplace Foundation, The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, The George and Barbara Bush Foundation, and The William J. Clinton Presidential Center, contribute to the preservation and dissemination of historical records.
Moreover, the National Archives hosts educational events like the National Archives Noon Lectures, providing opportunities for the public to learn about and engage with historical records.
[1] [Source] [3] [Source] [5] [Source]
(Note: Discovering the Civil War is an undisclosed initiative or project not mentioned in the provided information.)
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