This comprises the largest repository of official government records (both central and local governments) in the Commonwealth Caribbean. These records constitute unique and irreplaceable evidence of Jamaica’s history as they reflect the cultural, social and political development of the nation. The Collection includes papers and other materials from private persons and non-governmental bodies and institutions. An important category of non –government records is the collection of records from a number of religious denominations in the country.

Categories of Records
The records are arranged into five (5) main categories:
• Public Central Records
• Public Local Records
• Statutory Bodies Records (Formerly Semi-public)
• Private Records
• Ecclesiastical Records

Within these categories the archival principles of Provenance and original order are followed. That means that the records are organized according to the organizations or individuals which created, received or accumulated and used them in the conduct of their businesses or personal lives. The original order and classification of the records are maintained where possible. Therefore records of one organization or person are not mixed with those of others , but are kept separate. For example, the records of the Ministry of Education are kept separate from those of the Ministry of Finance, even though they are both Public Central records.