ABOUT US
Our Vision
Preserving Our Past, Inspiring Our Future
Our Mission
To safeguard the historical legacy of Sri Lanka by collecting, preserving, and providing access to ancient documents, manuscripts, and inscriptions for the benefit of present and future generations.
History
Sri Lanka's history of historic archival departments is deeply connected to the country's rich cultural heritage and long-standing practices of documentation and record-keeping. Ancient inscriptions, etched on stone pillars and cave walls, provide insights into the political, social, and religious aspects of ancient Sri Lankan communities. Royal archives, built by successive kings, maintain records related to government, taxation, land ownership, and other administrative affairs. Buddhist monastic libraries house important religious manuscripts, chronicles, and commentaries, offering essential historical and cultural information. During the colonial period, archive departments were developed to manage colonial records, including administrative documents, land surveys, court records, and correspondence between colonial officials. The National Archives of Sri Lanka, established in 1958, is the chief depository for government records, historical manuscripts, and other national materials, conserving Sri Lanka's documentary heritage and making it accessible to academics, scholars, and the public. Regional and institutional archives also preserve data linked to specific regions, institutions, religious organizations, and private collections, contributing to the preservation and sharing of local history and cultural assets.
Archival Preservation
The department would employ preservation techniques to ensure the physical integrity of ancient documents, manuscripts, and inscriptions. This might include climate-controlled storage facilities, conservation treatments, and preventive measures to protect materials from deterioration and damage.
Document Digitization
Recognizing the importance of digital preservation, the department would offer digitization services to create digital surrogates of historical documents. This facilitates broader access to the materials while also serving as a backup in case of physical damage or loss.
Cataloging and Metadata Creation
Archivists would catalog and describe archival materials, creating detailed finding aids and metadata to facilitate discovery and access. This might involve creating inventories, indexes, and databases to organize and manage the archival collections.
Reference and Research Assistance
The department would provide reference services to assist researchers, scholars, students, and the general public in accessing archival materials. This might involve answering inquiries, providing guidance on research strategies, and offering access to reference materials and finding aids.
Access to Reading Rooms
TThe archive might have reading rooms where visitors can access physical and digital materials for research purposes. These spaces would be equipped with appropriate facilities and resources to facilitate study and examination of archival materials.
Educational Programs and Workshops
The department might organize educational programs, workshops, and seminars to raise awareness about archival preservation and provide training on archival research methodologies. These initiatives aim to foster a greater appreciation for the importance of preserving historical records.
Objectives
- Preservation: Ensure the physical and digital preservation of ancient documents, manuscripts, and inscriptions using best archival practices and technologies available.
- Documentation: Systematically document and catalog historical records, providing detailed descriptions and metadata to facilitate access and research.
- Access: Facilitate access to archival materials for researchers, scholars, students, and the general public, promoting a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
- Education and Outreach: Organize educational programs, workshops, and exhibitions to raise awareness about the importance of archival preservation and encourage public engagement with historical documents.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with other archival institutions, academic organizations, and government agencies to exchange knowledge, share resources, and enhance the preservation and accessibility of historical records.
- Advocacy: Advocate for the protection of archival materials, including legal frameworks and policies to prevent the loss or destruction of valuable historical documents.
Maleesha Chathuranga
Dilusha Dissanayake
Nimhara Chalana
Ashen Chathranga
Krishani Imalka
Navodya Hewage
