National Service Archives

IU Indianapolis University Library

The National Service Archives strives to collect, preserve, and share the stories of civil service and volunteerism in America. Established in 2019 as part of the IU Indianapolis University Library Ruth Lilly Special Collections and Archives, the National Service Archives builds on the Lilly collections' longstanding focus on the nonprofit sector.

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IU Indianapolis University Library

The National Service Archives strives to collect, preserve, and share the stories of civil service and volunteerism in America. Established in 2019 as part of the IU Indianapolis University Library Ruth Lilly Special Collections and Archives, the National Service Archives builds on the Lilly collections' longstanding focus on the nonprofit sector.

Additional Info

America's Promise wagon.

While the United States Presidential Libraries collect some national service content, much of the important material is not included in these repositories. That’s where IU Indianapolis University Library’s National Service Archives comes in. We are committed to ensuring the wealth of national service content is retained for study by future generations. 

Library and national service leaders work collaboratively to: 

  • Develop strategies for promoting scholarship and academic programs connected to this collection
  • Secure a full-time dedicated archivist and grow the collection by connecting with the movement's leaders, policy makers, and volunteers
  • Host events that raise awareness of this unique resource among scholars

National Service Archives collections presently include documents from the Corporation for National Community Service; papers from leaders like Senator Harris Wofford, who helped create the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps; and volunteer stories and records. By sharing such stories, the National Service Archives will inspire students, alumni, and researchers alike to contribute to their communities in similar ways.

Your giving matters

The National Service Archives is a unique repository of documents and other materials from people and organizations who have helped create AmeriCorps and other programs to unlock the power of civic engagement in American life. It aims to be a resource for students, scholars, and citizens on this deeply-rooted American tradition of voluntary service.

Les Lenkowsky, PhD IU Professor Emeritus in Public Affairs and Philanthropic Studies; past CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service

Important Disclosures

Please note, the name and purpose of the fund displayed on this page constitute the authorized description of the fund by the Indiana University Foundation, Inc. Your gift supports the fund as described herein.

In July 2024, IUPUI became Indiana University Indianapolis and is no longer affiliated with Purdue University. The IU Foundation is in the process of updating all fund titles and fund descriptions to reflect this change. Effective July 2024, even though IUPUI may be mentioned on this page, gifts to this fund will be administered by the Indiana University Foundation, Inc., on behalf of Indiana University Indianapolis.