THE UNITED NATIONS ARCHIVES READING ROOM IS CLOSED

The Reading Room is presently closed to researchers due to renovations.

We are unsure of the exact dates when the renovations will conclude but expect it to be sometime in May 2024. In the meantime, we will be able to provide limited reference services until we reopen. If you are interested in making reservations in our reading room, please continue to check our website to see if we have posted a reopening date.

Our records continue to be available online for public research through our Archives portal.

WHAT WE DO

The United Nations Archives and Records Management Section:

  • Provides records and information management services to the UN Global Secretariat
  • Preserves and provides access to the Organization’s historical archives

You can access UN archives online and in our Public Research Facility at United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

Image of Staff searching the archives

Search the Archives

Explore the archives of the United Nations. Our collections of documents and photographs cover four broad areas: The Secretaries-General, Secretariat Departments and Offices, Peacekeeping and Field Missions, and Predecessor International Organizations. We have arranged them into groups based on which office created them.

Display of Archival collection in ARMS

Exhibitions and Outreach

Our Exhibition and Outreach programme promotes awareness of UN archives and the work of the Archives and Records Management Section. We also promote our archival collections and the history of the UN in magazine and journal articles, social media and blog posts, and by conducting tours. Knowledge of the past creates a better future!

Collection of Archival records at the UN Archives warehouse

Management of UN Records

The Archives and Records Management Section (ARMS) is responsible for advising UN entities and staff on all aspects of record-keeping and supporting the management of UN records throughout their lifecycle, from creation to their identification and preservation as archives.
 

eLearning photo

Learn

Our e-Learning platform provides an in depth understanding of the importance of records and information management for UN staff. It covers the lifecycle of information, relevant policies and best practices, and gives guidance on managing and sharing information, including when it is sensitive.

Photograph of Archival process discussion at Field Missions

Field Information Management

Managing records and information is critical to decision-making, providing evidence of activities, ensuring that sensitive information is protected and shared appropriately in Field Operations. It also keeps the Organization accountable. This guidance is applicable to Peace Operations, Special Political Missions and UN Good Offices.