Background

Just over a century ago audio-visual media were completely new and pioneering. Now, they are all pervasive. In addition to being a unique mirror of the life of the Welsh people, the Archive's collection demonstrates how Wales has used these media from the very beginning, and how they have depicted Wales.

This collection brings the recent history of Wales alive before of our eyes. We can listen to it and witness the myriad events from our recent past which have shaped our very being.

Everyday life and work are also important aspects of our social history, and an amateur film or recording of ordinary life in our communities can be just as revealing as skilful professional productions of important events and famous people.

However, the Archive is more than just a reflection of past times. The collection contains recent and contemporary productions and recordings: last night's television programmes, this year's films, cartoons that are still winning awards around the world.

The National Library and Sgrîn: Media Agency for Wales established the National Screen and Sound Archive of Wales in April 2001. It brings together all the sound and moving image collections held under the aegis of the two bodies. Following the provision of extra funding, the Archive is poised to strengthen and expand its provision in several important areas.

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