Our History and Purpose

The Archivists of Religious Institutions (ARI) was founded in 1979 by a group of archivists who felt they had common needs and concerns. After discussing their similar needs and interests, the archivists decided that the purposes of ARI are:

• To Provide a forum for the discussion of matters of particular concern to archivists in religious institutions and agencies,
• To Promote the interests and effectiveness of the membership through educational programs, seminars, workshops, and regular meetings,
• To Foster professional growth and development among the members, and
• To Assist and Advise members in their professional role and in their institutions.

Who Are We?

ARI is an active group of archivists whose members represent various religious affiliations. The membership includes many who are 'lone arrangers' and from small-scale archival repositories.

Who Should Join?

ARI is open to any individual who has an interest in archival work or issues. ARI is an organization that offers training at all levels of experience to both fulltime career archivists and committed volunteers. If you have an interest in archival work, then ARI is for you.

How to Join?

We hope that if you work in the general vicinity of New York you will decide to join ARI. If you are not located in our area, you are still very welcome to join our email list.

Membership runs the calendar year, from January 1 to December 31. Dues are only $15.00 per Year. To join ARI simply fill out the membership form and send it with $15.00 to the address on the form. You may download the membership form and print it out or you may request that a form be sent to you by email to .