From Tartu to Riga: Exploring How Archives Handle Information Requests 

In February 2026 our Finnish team travelled to Estonia and Latvia to deepen our understanding of how national archives handle information requests and to strengthen collaboration for upcoming project activities. The purpose of the trip was clear: gain real‑world insights into archival workflows, digitization practices and user enquiry processes, which are central to the development work in the ArchXAI project. 

Starting in Tartu: A Look Inside Estonia’s National Archives 

Our journey began in snowy Tartu, where we visited the modern main building of the National Archives of Estonia. The team received an in‑depth introduction to Estonia’s digitized collections, public access services and fee-based enquiry system. We learned how users can request information through digital portals, how clarifying questions are handled, and how the archives maintain rapid response times. 

We also had the chance to observe the active digitization of ArchXAI‑related materials. Several specialists work in shifts to process these collections, ensuring high-quality digitization and preservation. Interviews with archivists provided valuable insight into their enquiry workflows – from minimal initial data to carefully reconstructed responses. 

In addition to the professional programme, we visited the Estonian National Museum, whose architecture and exhibitions offered a fascinating cultural perspective. 

Study Visit: Latvian National Archives in Riga 

The next part of the trip took us to Riga and the Latvian National Archives. We received a historical overview of the archive network spread across the country and were shown the databases used to view archival materials. A highlight was seeing a 1926 video of a historical state visit – an impressive example of preserved audiovisual heritage. 

Our tour continued with demonstrations in preventive preservation and digitization departments, where experts showed how even severely damaged documents can be restored for long-term access. 
 
Interviews with archivists further expanded our understanding of the diverse channels through which information requests arrive and how professionals navigate situations where only minimal starting data is available. 

The National Library of Latvia 

On the final working day, we visited the architecturally outstanding National Library of Latvia – the venue for the upcoming ArchXAI workshop. Designed by a well-known Latvian-born architect, Gunnar Birkerts, the building is a national landmark and houses a collection of 4.5 million items across all fields of knowledge, including rare books, manuscripts and maps. 

At the library, we checked the facilities for the workshop taking place in April and reviewed the communication materials. The space comfortably accommodates around 50 participants, so we warmly welcome everyone interested in the topic, especially archive professionals from Riga, to join the workshop. 

From Field Visits to Project Development 

Throughout the week, the team gained practical, detailed knowledge of how archives in Estonia and Latvia process user enquiries, digitize materials and manage access to cultural heritage collections. These insights directly support the ArchXAI project’s goal: developing AI‑enhanced solutions that help archives handle information more efficiently across borders. 

A warm thank you to all our hosts in both countries for their time, expertise and hospitality. 
We look forward to continuing the collaboration and sharing the next steps at the upcoming ArchXAI workshop! 
 
Marianne, Mira, Sanna and Anna

More information on Riga Workshop (23.-24.4.2026) are available here:
https://centralbaltic.eu/project-events/archxai-workshop-ai-enhanced-archival-workflows/