The diary archive for everyday folks
Every story, every experience, every diary is worth saving.
About US
The American Diary Project was founded in October of 2022 with a lot of gumption and one simple goal: Rescue diaries and preserve the writing of everyday Americans.
We are proud to be a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit run entirely by volunteers. We provide a unique glimpse into ordinary life across the U.S. and throughout time, a sustainable free resource for primary source research, and a permanent home for American diaries.
MISSION
Preserve diaries and journals from everyday Americans, providing a free public educational resource that supports diarists, archives history, and honors the full human experience.
VISION
Every American diarist is supported in telling and preserving their stories.
CORE VALUES
ARCHIVE
Our physical archive is located at 17138 Lorain Ave. #201 Cleveland, Ohio 44111 on the second floor of the Key Bank building at Kamm’s Corners.
Our collection is open to the public for in-person viewing by appointment only. Please reach out to schedule your visit.
press & partners
The Flower Letters Podcast — Kate Zirkle | Your Piece of History Matters
Ideastream Public Media — ‘Do not open’ — until now. Diaries from around the US find a home in Cleveland
Founder & Executive Director
Society of Ohio Archivists member
Lead Volunteer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Meet the talented folks who serve on our board, providing mission-based leadership and strategic governance.
Check out our board of directors
ARCHIVING
Preserving diaries and journals takes careful handling and storage. We follow guidelines outlined by The Library of Congress.
BLOG
Do you love journaling? Us too! How about stories from the past? Yep, same here! We share this and more on our blog.