National Archives facilities across the nation and the iconic museum in Washington, D.C. remain temporarily closed for the health and safety of our visitors, researchers and staff. This outbreak has raised a lot of questions, many of which remain unanswered.

Even through this uncertainty, the National Archives Foundation is pressing on with its mission to shine a light on the holdings of the National Archives. You can find us online via one (or all!) of four specific efforts during this time.

• 1. When the physical doors closed, we launched the informative and fun Archives at Home newsletter series. On Tuesdays, we showcase the American Experience, a look into our nation’s past through stories, videos and unique holdings. On Fridays, kids and parents are welcomed to a helping of History Snacks with family-friendly activities, stories and videos.
• 2. In addition to our fresh newsletter updates, the Foundation launched livestream programming with a celebration of Thomas Jefferson’s 277th birthday. (He doesn’t look a day over 275.) Subsequently, we have hosted historian A’Lelia Bundles who discussed the new Netflix series “Self Made,” based on the life and legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, and New York Times best-selling authors Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch, who talked about their new book, The Lincoln Conspiracy.
• 3. Are you in the market for some patriotic apparel or new jewelry? Maybe a biography of a President or some historic glassware? The National Archives Store is open 24/7 online. We ship the next day and have an incredible variety of products that are all inspired by our collective history. Take a look around—it’s the perfect place to find a gift for an upcoming birthday or even Father’s Day!
• 4. We are also staying in touch via social media, so please follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook for all of your Archives fun. Are you passing the time by looking through old photo albums or finally teaching your old dog some new tricks? Share your photos or favorite memories with us. Maybe it was your family trip to D.C. when you saw the Declaration of Independence for the first time. Tag us (@archivesfdn) and use the hashtag #ArchivesAtHome and we can give you a shout-out while we get through this together.

If you aren’t on our mailing list, sign up for our Archives at Home newsletters here, and you won’t miss the rich content and programming we’re bringing to you.

We hope to hear from you, while you hear from us. Stay safe and be well.

Patrick Madden
Executive Director
National Archives Foundation