Image courtesy
Waltham Public Library.
Albert Ryan Collection.

How do archives support communities?

• Foster a sense of community and strengthen civic pride based on a shared and documented history
• Support efficiency in local government with organized and available records
• Review documented decisions of the past to assist with planning for the future
• Develop a better understanding of your community and the role it plays locally and nationally
• Promote the study of your town to raise awareness of your assets
• Supplement and support public education and lifelong education for local citizens
• Preserve cherished memories of local families
• Encourage tourism by highlighting local cultural heritage institutions such as museums, libraries and historical societies
• Boost business opportunities with an increased interest in local culture that leads to growth in visitation
• Beautify your community with cultural objects that show off heritage and generate nostalgia