World Wide Diplomatic Archives Index: The United States of America
Legislation
Most permanent State Department records created prior to 1975 are with the National Archives and Records Administration. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives researchers the right to obtain access to all US Government executive branch documents with nine statutory exceptions. State Department records created after 1975 should be requested through FOIA.
Location
National Archives at College Park 8601 Adelphi Road, College Park, MD 20740-6001
Procedures
Researchers should take advantage of the on-line search engines to discover where relevant records are located. Most State Department records are located at the National Archives II at College Park, MD. However, the Presidential Libraries are also important repositories of diplomatic documents, particularly those of the National Security Council staff. A small number of diplomatic cables are available on-line. Many frequently requested documents can be found on the State Department’s Electronic Reading Room site. The State Department’s website also gives guidance on making a FOIA request.