An archive is a collection of historical records and documents (like newspapers, photographs, diaries). A museum is an institution that cares for the collection of objects of scientific, artistic or historical importance and makes them available for public viewing through exhibits and programs.

A tour guide in a museum, also known as a museum docent, serves as an ambassador, educator and entertainer for the museum. These individuals possess a thorough knowledge of a museum's exhibits, which allows them to explain an exhibit or artifact's significance, and answer any questions that guests might have.

But in the U.S. a docent is a guide who works at a museum, a historical site, or even a zoo or a park. Docents are usually volunteers, and their services are often free of charge.