As of 1 June 2026, our reading room is closed for the foreseeable future as we prepare to move to a new location. We do not currently have a reopening date, but it will not be before 2028. Please continue to check our website for updates.
During our closure, we will prioritize internal requests from UN staff members and delegates from Permanent Missions. If you are an external researcher, we will try to respond to your request if we are able to do so.
Millions of digitized pages continue to be available on our online catalogue. Please see our Help Manual to learn how the archives are organized and how to search for digitized folders. In addition, please see our FAQs for answers to our most common reference questions and links to resources.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.