«NARB in Focus»: «Archival Work» Exhibition Opens at the Yanka Kupala Library
On October 16, 2026, the Yanka Kupala Central City Library in Minsk hosted the grand opening of a thematic photo exhibition titled «Archival Work». This project is the result of a vibrant creative collaboration between the library, members of the Minsk-based «Pozitiv» (Positive) photography workshop, and the National Archives of the Republic of Belarus (NARB).
The exhibition serves as a natural extension of a larger showcase by the photography group, which was previously held at the NARB to mark Archivist’s Day. Now, all residents and visitors to the capital have the opportunity to catch a glimpse into the mysteries of the archives’ storage facilities.
At the heart of the exhibition are artistic photographs taken within the NARB. The photographers’ lenses captured aspects of the country’s primary archive that typically remain hidden from the average visitor.
To ensure the exhibition is as informative as it is aesthetically pleasing, the photographs are accompanied by detailed information regarding the types of documents held by the NARB and the conditions under which they are preserved. Visitors can learn how modern technology helps safeguard invaluable historical collections for future generations.
A guest of honor at the event was Margarita Anatolyevna Starostenko, Head of the Department for the Use of Documents and Information at the NARB. In her presentation, she captivated the audience with the rich history of the archive, led a virtual tour of its rarest and most intriguing collections, and provided thorough answers to a wide range of questions—covering everything from the nuances of genealogical research to the intricacies of restoring ancient documents.
The formal portion of the event transitioned seamlessly into a heartfelt, celebratory concert, demonstrating that archivists are individuals of immense creative potential—far more than just stern custodians of records. R.O.Khripov, a staff member at the National Archives of the Republic of Belarus (NARB), performed several musical pieces. This musical gift drew sincere applause from the audience. The event concluded on a vibrant and powerful note with a performance by the ensemble «Kumushki». The group delighted guests with their spirited renditions of folk songs, leaving everyone in high spirits.
The exhibition «Archival Affairs» vividly demonstrated how rigorous scholarship, historical memory, and refined art can be closely intertwined.
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| 1. Photo exhibition «NARB Through the Lens» in the archive’s lobby |
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| 2. Photo exhibition «Archival Affairs» at the Yanka Kupala Central Library |
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| 3. Photo exhibition «Archival Affairs» at the Yanka Kupala Central Library |
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| 4. M.A.Starostenko, a department head at NARB, discusses the archive’s unique documents and collections |
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| 5. Presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation from NARB to the «Pozitiv» (Positive) photography workshop |
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| 6. NARB staff member R.O.Khripov performing a musical piece |
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| 7. Performance by the ensemble «Kumushki» at the end of the event |