Objectives

In accordance with the Archives Act (1982) and the Archives Regulations (1988), the Objectives of the Department are to: 

• Serve as the main repository in the country for the preservation of government records relating to the country's history and heritage in paper, audiovisual and electronic formats.
• Provide a research and reference service to the public, and disseminate information in the collections to promote knowledge and interest in the nation's history and culture.
• Collect archival materials relating to Jamaica produced by non-government institutions and private persons to ensure that primary materials of value to Jamaica are preserved.
• Establish standards and procedures for the efficient and effective management of official records in public sector entities at all stages of their life cycle.
• Provide consulting services and training in records and information management to government ministries and departments.
• Provide storage facilities for non-current government records awaiting final disposition in keeping with their retention schedules.
• Provide administrative support to the Archives Advisory Committee.