Their work requires organizational skill, knowledge of federal and state regulations, and continuing education in new records formats, technology, disaster planning, and preservation. Many local government officials have sought the specialized expertise of archivists and records managers to develop effective records programs. Some have added archivists and records managers to their staff. Across America people find invaluable information in local government records. Researchers of many different backgrounds use these records.
Most citizens use local government records for very personal and very practical matters.
Citizens need birth certificates to help document age for retirement, to acquire a passport to travel abroad, and so their children can enter kindergarten. Homeowners refer to tax records to see if they qualify for abatements or exemptions. Genealogists use birth, death, and marriage records to trace family history. School departments use census figures to project future class populations and to plan for school growth and budget changes. Local Government Officials use records in the daily course of business.