About the State Archives

Since 1855, the Connecticut State Library has acquired historical records from the three branches of State government. In 1909, the General Assembly made the State Library the official State Archives. Today, the Archives includes more than 32,000 cubic feet of records documenting the evolution of state public policy and its implementation, the rights and claims of citizens, and the history of Connecticut and its people.

The State Archives program is part of the Office of the Public Records Administrator. The State Archivist assists the Public Records Administrator in developing records management guidelines, regulations and records retention schedules for state agencies and local governments. By statute, the State Archivist must review all records retention schedules issued by and records disposal authorizations submitted to the Public Records Administrator.

The State Archivist chairs the Connecticut State Historical Records Advisory Board (CSHRAB), whose members are appointed by the Governor for three year terms under federal regulations pertaining to the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).

Time-Line of Important Dates in the History of Connecticut's Public Records and State Archives Programs (83.3kb)

Prepared by the State Archives, Connecticut State Library.