ArchiveGrid is a subscription-only database

Database

A database is an organized collection of data for one or more purposes, usually in digital form. The data are typically organized to model relevant aspects of reality , in a way that supports processes requiring this information...

 containing nearly a million descriptions of archival

Archive

An archive is a collection of historical records, or the physical place they are located. Archives contain primary source documents that have accumulated over the course of an individual or organization's lifetime, and are kept to show the function of an organization...

 collections from all over the world. Historical documents, personal papers, manuscripts and family histories are described and cataloged by librarians and archivists. With ArchiveGrid researchers can learn about the contents of these collections, contact the archives to arrange a visit to examine materials, or order copies.

ArchiveGrid is a service of RLG

Research Libraries Group

The Research Libraries Group was a U.S.-based library consortium which developed the Eureka interlibrary search engine, the RedLightGreen database of bibliographic descriptions and ArchiveGrid, a database containing descriptions of archival collections...

, a not-for-profit membership organization

Membership organization

A membership organization is a broad term for a group or body which has members. Typically any member of the public can join and a membership fee or "subscription" is payable, but arrangements vary widely...

of over 150 universities, national libraries, archives, historical societies, and other institutions.