The University Archives is the official repository documenting the creation, development, priorities and activities of every IU administrative unit and academic school, department or research center.

The Indiana University Archives holds many collections from alumni, student groups, cultural centers, and student publications that document student life at IU from the 19th century to present day.

The University Archives collects on a selective basis the papers of Indiana University faculty, staff and alumni. These personal papers are a rich source for historical research on disciplines ranging from art to science. 

An area of special collecting focus, the folklore collections document the administrative, research and teaching activities of the faculty, staff and students of the first PhD granting folklore program in the United States.