New York Consolidated Laws, Arts and Cultural Affairs Law - ACA § 57.13. Statement of legislative intent

The legislature finds that public records are essential to the administration of local government.  Public records contain information which allows government programs to function, provides officials with a basis for making decisions, and ensures continuity with past operations.  Public records document the legal responsibility of government, protect the rights of citizens, and provide citizens with a means of monitoring government programs and measuring the performance of public officials.  Local government records also reflect the historical development of the government and of the community it serves.  Such records need to be systematically managed to ensure ready access to vital information and to promote the efficient and economical operation of government.