The National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago proactively engages with individuals and communities
- to bring them closer to their history;
- to encourage a better understanding of the value of archives; and
- to promote its role in preserving the nation's documentary heritage.
Thematic exhibitions, talks and tours are facilitated as well as participation in career fairs. An annual Archives Awareness Week is held in November to highlight the institution and its records, and encourage public dialogue on various aspects of our history and documentary heritage. Publications, such as brochures and virtual exhibitions, are also produced to highlight its diverse collection.
Archives Awareness Week
Since 2012, the National Archives has staged an annual Archives Awareness Week to showcase the role and function of the institution as well as its diverse collection. Each year a theme is selected. Discussions, edutainment, open days and tours mark the week-long event, all of which are open to the public. Records management workshops are also held for Government ministries and agencies.
Career Fairs
The National Archives participates in career fairs mounted nationally by the National Training Agency or upon request from other educational institutions. Pursuing a career in archives can be fulfilling as one is actively engaged in preserving, arranging and making accessible the nation's documentary heritage. The field is a developing one in Trinidad and Tobago and covers archives and records management, and conservation.
Exhibitions
Exhibitions are mounted to coincide with major national commemorative events such as Independence, Emancipation Day and Indian Arrival Day. While most exhibitions are mounted in our Search Room, we also accommodate requests for exhibitions by government ministries and agencies, schools and other organisations. We also work collaboratively with other organisations to host joint exhibitions.
Panel discussions and Talks
Periodically, talks or panel discussions are held to bring to life key aspects of our national history, showcasing the records available at the institution. These discussions are usually held in collaboration with experts, community representatives, or organisations or institutions such as the University of the West Indies.
Publications
Information on the National Archives, its work and its collection, is made available in the public domain through our website, and other publications such as brochures, booklets and other promotional literature. This activity supports our outreach to the national community.
Tours
Requests for tours to the National Archives are entertained by various groups, including secondary school and university students. The tour generally showcases the institution's history, collection, functions and departments such as the Search Room and the Conservation Lab. Special requests for displays of certain records are accommodated. Tours must be booked in advance by sending a letter to the Government Archivist, stating the size of the group, proposed date and time, and purpose of the tour. The letter should be sent at least one week prior to the scheduled date of the tour.
