Society of American Archivists

Society of American Archivists
Name	Society of American Archivists
Formation	1936
Headquarters	Chicago, Illinois
Membership	6,000+
Leader title	Executive Director
Leader name	Jacqualine Price Osafo
Website	www2.archivists.org

Society of American Archivists. The Society of American Archivists is the oldest and largest national professional association dedicated to the needs and interests of archives and archivists in the United States. Founded in 1936, it serves a diverse membership of over 6,000 professionals and institutions. The organization is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and is governed by an elected Council and managed by an Executive Director.

History

The Society of American Archivists was established in 1936 during a period of significant growth for the archival profession, influenced by the establishment of the National Archives in 1934. Key founding figures included early leaders like Solon J. Buck, who served as the first president of the American Historical Association and later as the second Archivist of the United States. The organization's early years were focused on defining professional standards and fostering collaboration among archivists working in diverse settings, from government to academic institutions. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded its role, responding to developments such as the rise of electronic records and the increasing importance of documenting diverse communities beyond traditional government records.

Organization and governance

The Society of American Archivists is governed by an elected Council, which includes the President, Vice President, Treasurer, and several council members. Day-to-day operations are managed by the Executive Director, who oversees a professional staff at the headquarters in Chicago. Key committees, such as the Committee on Ethics and Professional Conduct and the Committee on Education, guide specific areas of policy and program development. The membership also elects representatives to the Nominating Committee and votes on amendments to the Bylaws.

Activities and programs

A core activity is the annual Annual Meeting, a major conference featuring workshops, paper presentations, and networking events for professionals from institutions like the Library of Congress and Smithsonian Institution. The organization offers a comprehensive professional education program, including workshops, webinars, and the Digital Archives Specialist certificate. It also administers prestigious awards and scholarships, such as the Fellows distinction and the Harold T. Pinkett Student of Color Award. Additional programs focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as supporting new professionals through the Students and New Archives Professionals Section.

Publications

The Society of American Archivists publishes several key scholarly and professional resources. Its flagship journal, The American Archivist, is a peer-reviewed quarterly featuring research on archival theory and practice. The SAA Press publishes authoritative monographs and guides, such as the Archival Fundamentals Series. Practical guidance is disseminated through the SAA Case Studies series and the Archival Outlook magazine, which provides news and updates for the membership. These publications are essential resources for professionals at institutions ranging from Yale University to the Museum of Modern Art.

Advocacy and public policy

The Society of American Archivists engages in advocacy on issues critical to the preservation of and access to historical records. It frequently comments on policies proposed by the National Archives and Records Administration and testifies before committees of the United States Congress. Key advocacy areas include support for the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, funding for archival programs, and legislation affecting copyright, privacy, and freedom of information, such as the Freedom of Information Act. The organization also issues statements and develops resources on issues like ethical access to sensitive collections and the preservation of digital government records.

Affiliated groups and sections

The organization includes numerous specialized groups that allow members to connect around specific interests or institutional types. These include the Academy of Certified Archivists, which oversees the Certified Archivist credential, and the Council of State Archivists, which represents state government archives. Within the membership, sections like the Archives Management Section, the Electronic Records Section, and the Visual Materials Section provide focused forums. Other groups address specific communities, such as the Archivists of Religious Collections Section and the Latin American and Caribbean Cultural Heritage Archives Roundtable.

Category:Professional associations based in the United States Category:Archival organizations Category:Organizations established in 1936 Category:Organizations based in Chicago