säätiöarkistojen

Säätiöarkistot are archives maintained by foundations, particularly in Finland. These archives serve as repositories for the historical records and documents generated by a foundation throughout its existence. They are crucial for preserving the memory of the foundation's activities, its beneficiaries, its founders, and its impact on society. The contents of a säätiöarkisto can vary widely but typically include meeting minutes, financial records, correspondence, reports, publications, photographs, and other materials that document the foundation's operations and decisions.

The purpose of a säätiöarkisto extends beyond mere storage. It ensures transparency and accountability by making historical information accessible, both for the foundation's own governance and for external researchers, historians, and the general public. These archives can provide valuable insights into various fields, such as social history, economic development, charitable work, and the history of specific sectors or communities that the foundation has supported.

The management of a säätiöarkisto often involves cataloging, preservation, and providing access according to archival principles. Some larger foundations may employ dedicated archivists, while smaller ones might entrust this responsibility to administrative staff. Increasingly, efforts are being made to digitize parts of these archives to improve accessibility and ensure long-term preservation. The legal and ethical obligations regarding the management and preservation of such records are often guided by national archival legislation and best practices within the archival community.