Archival facilities are a critical element in preserving and making accessible our nation’s cultural heritage. This SAA-approved standard provides guidance on site evaluation, construction, environmental systems, fire protection, security, lighting, materials and finishes, equipment, and the functional spaces for an archival facility that meets the needs of staff and researchers and ensures the preservation of collections. It is required reading for archivists, librarians, and the building professions planning a new or remodeled archival facility.

Archival and Special Collections Facilities: Guidelines for Archivists, Librarians, Architects, and Engineers were officially adopted as a standard by the Council of the Society of American Archivists in February 2009, following review by the SAA Standards Committee and the general archival community.