Who We Are

Founded in 1936, the Society of American Archivists is North America's oldest and largest national professional association dedicated to the needs and interests of archives and archivists. SAA represents more than 6,200 professional archivists employed by governments, universities, businesses, libraries, and historical organizations nationally.

All of the work undertaken by SAA on behalf of its members and archives users is guided by the following vision, mission, and core values:

VISION:  The Society of American Archivists enables archivists to achieve professional excellence and foster innovation to ensure the identification, preservation, and use of records of enduring value.

MISSION: SAA promotes the values and diversity of archives and archivists. We are the preeminent source of professional resources and the principal communication hub for American archivists.

CORE ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES
The Society of American Archivists is committed to:

• Advancing the public standing of archivists.
• Ensuring the diversity of its membership and leaders, the profession, and the archival record.
• Fostering a culture of creativity and experimentation across the association.
• Providing an open, inclusive, and collaborative environment.
• Providing excellent member service.
• Social responsibility and the public good.
• Transparency, accountability, integrity, and professionalism in conducting its activities.

The SAA Council develops, implements, and refines a Strategic Plan that articulates the outcomes that SAA would like to achieve on behalf of archives and archivists.

Search SAA's Council-approved position statements to learn more about key issues and the organization.

SAA's governance structure provides a framework for accomplishing its mission while serving the needs and interests of SAA members.

The SAA Foundation is the nation's leading source of nonprofit funding dedicated to the interests of archives and archivists. Donations to the SAA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, are tax deductible.

SAA is in search of excellence! The Society offers a variety of opportunities for professional recognition and financial assistance through its awards and scholarships (funded by the SAA Foundation).

Contact SAA
SAA's Service Center is available to answer your questions or direct your inquiry to the appropriate staff member in our Chicago office. Call 866-722-7858 or send an email to servicecenter[@]archivists.org. The Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central time.

See a full staff directory here.