The Protocols were developed to provide best practices for culturally responsive care and use of Native American archival and documentary materials held by non-tribal organizations. The Protocols build upon numerous professional ethical codes; a number of significant international declarations recognizing indigenous rights, including several now issued by the United Nations; and the ground-breaking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols for Libraries, Archives and Information Services.
The proposed standards and goals articulated in Protocols for Native American Archival Materials are meant to inspire and to foster mutual respect and reciprocity. The Protocols include recommendations for non-tribal libraries and archives as well as Native American communities.