What are archives? The word ‘archives’ is colloquially used to refer to several different things, which can cause some confusion. It can describe both a collection of historical documents as well as the physical location where the documents are housed. This guide will use an inclusive definition of archives, encompassing a wide variety of documents and records.
For a full definition, please visit the Society of American Archivists’ Glossary.
Who are they for? Everyone!
The Duke University Medical Center Archives collects, preserves, and provides access to materials documenting the history of the medical center community, from the 1930s to the present. While some of our collections are closed due to privacy concerns, the vast majority of our materials are open to general public for research.
