Explore Your Archive
TV Presenter Sara Edwards has been researching her family history as part of the Explore Your Archive campaign which will run from 14-22 November in archives across the UK and Ireland.
The campaign encourages everyone to discover the stories, the facts, the places and the people that are at the heart of our communities with many archives opening their vaults and inviting the public to experience, understand and take pride in the wealth and variety of material they hold.
A full day of events will be held at The National Library of Wales on Thursday 19 November which will give the public an opportunity to learn about The National Library of Wales’ Wikipedia project; Cynefin Project including a tour of the Library’s digitisation and conservation areas; People’s Collection Wales’ visit to Patagonia, and Scanning with the Library’s volunteers.
Linda Tomos Chief Executive and Librarian National Library of Wales said:
‘The National Library of Wales is a treasure trove for anyone interested in family and local history – with millions of books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, art, film and sound archives. Many of these resources are available free online, including thousands of articles in digitised Welsh newspapers. I very much welcome the Explore Your Archives campaign to highlight the riches available for all at the Library.’
Sara Edwards, who is supporting the campaign this year said:
“I think archives are exciting places...and I've spent many happy hours in them over the years. As a student I would very easily get side tracked by some totally unexpected discovery. More recently I've been delving into family history, and the most amazing things come to light such as the old names of fields and farms.not just people! It's a bonus that the archive staff are so knowledgeable and friendly and willing to help!”
Ken Skates, Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism commented,
“Archives play an integral part of shaping our communities in Wales and help us to develop a deep sense of place and identity. They are unique as they hold the original records of local people, families, businesses and organisations which you can read in their own words. I am delighted to support the campaign and would encourage everyone to visit their local archive.”
Editor’s Notes
For further information, please contact:
Elin-Hâf 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk
#explorearchives
- Explore Your Archive has been developed by The National Archives and the Archives and Records Association (UK & Ireland) and is supported in Wales by Museums, Archives, and Libraries Division, Welsh Government.
- The archive sector in Wales comprises:
- 13 local authority archive services (record offices) including 3 joint services, with 15 service points
- 5 higher education archive services
- The National Library of Wales
- Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales
- The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales (RCAHMW)
These organisations work together through the strategic partnership body Archives and Records Council Wales (ARCW) to deliver all-Wales developmental projects.