October is Archives Month. It is a time to celebrate the incredible role archives play in preserving our cultural heritage and shaping our understanding of history. Archives are more than just dusty old papers and forgotten relics; they are the living, breathing chronicles of our past that continue to inform our present and future.
Archives Month started as a week-long observance that began in 1989. The Society of American Archivists (SAA) initiated "Archives Week" to increase public awareness of the importance of archives and to promote the work of archivists. Over time, this celebration expanded from a week to a month-long event. In 2006, the Council of State Archivists (CoSA) officially declared October as American Archives Month.
What are archives, you may ask. They are documents and records that provide information about a place, institution, or group of people at a particular time or place in history. Archives can contain a wide range of documents and records, including letters and correspondence, emails, photographs, business and governmental records, personal diaries and journals, artifacts, audio-visual materials, maps, and websites.
This year, the Donald & Beverly Gerth Special Collections & University Archives at the Sacramento State University Library will be participating in two events this month. Mark your calendar!
The Sacramento Archives Crawl
This annual event takes place throughout Sacramento! Many different archival institutions from around the area will be showcasing material. Come to the Sacramento Public Library Sacramento Room to see material from the Gerth Special Collections & University Archives.
DATE + TIME: Saturday, October 4, 2025, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
LOCATION: Sacramento Central Public Library, 828 I Street
For more information visit www.sacramentoarchivescrawl.com
Donald and Beverly Gerth Special Collections & University Archives Open House
Are you interested in Sac State History? Are you interested in Sacramento History? Ever wondered what happens in Special Collections and University Archives? Would you like to learn more?
Join us for an open house to learn more about the Donald and Beverly Gerth Special Collections & University Archives and our mission to collect, preserve, and provide access to the history of the Sacramento region and Sac State.
DATE + TIME: Thursday, October 16, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
LOCATION: Gerth Special Collections & University Archives, University Library 1502
REGISTER: https://csus.libcal.com/event/15391168