The nation's memory the United States National Archives and Records Administration An Interview with Don W. Wilson, archivist of the United States, National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, DC 20408, USA

Abstract

In this interview conducted on 28 June 1992, Don W. Wilson discusses some of the challenges he has faced and policies he has initiated since becoming Archivist of the United States in 1987. Independence from the General Services Administration, gained in 1985, has been beneficial for the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). As an independent agency it has been freer to pursue a more aggressive program for acquiring historically important materials. Yet. the necessity of educating agencies on their responsibility for transferring records to the Archives remains constant, as does the need to apprise Congress of the agency's requirements and to advise against legislation detrimental to its mission. NARA's participation in the development of a national information policy involves striking a delicate balance between the public's “right to know” and concerns over individual privacy or limiting access to certain records on the grounds of national security. Under Wilson, the National Archives has played an increasingly active role in supporting state archival programs and in offering assistance to the archives of other nations. One of the most pressing issues facing NARA currently is formulating policies for the preservation of and access to electronic records. Older but persistent concerns that Wilson and his staff are addressing include preservation of paper records, promoting public awareness of the many functions of the National Archives, and the need for additional space. The latter will be much ameliorated with the completion of the Archives II facility on the University of Maryland campus in 1994.