The collections of the Research Archives are unique in the breadth of its coverage, the simplicity of its organization, and the availablility of its resources. In addition to its traditional paper-based collection, the Research Archives has recently emerged as a leading force in the development of electronic tools and resources for the study analysis and presentation of the ancient Near East.

The space allocated to the Research Archives in the new wing of the Oriental Institute will have a twofold effect. It will provide safe, secure and environmentally appropriate housing for the paper materials in the collection. At the same time it will ease the cramped research and reading room spaces in the existing building, allowing us to provide proper access to these materials to the scholars who use the collections, and give us space to integrate emerging tools and technologies into research strategies.