Some records which usually form between 1 - 5 % of records of an entity have long term historical value based on the evidence they contain on the origin, policies and procedures of an agency as well as the information relating to persons, places and events created as a result of government policies.

These records are usually selected by the Archivist for permanent preservation at the Jamaica Archives and Records Department although the input of entities is always welcome. They can often advise on the value of the records to the establishment and functioning of the entity and which should be preserved permanently.  Records documenting transactions - however routine - of outstanding persons might have archival value and therefore should be preserved.