This library unit acquires and maintains materials in the specialized areas of Archives and Special Collections; it also coordinates patron access to each of these areas.

Archives contains official records, images, and other materials which relate to the history of the University. Archives also maintains selected collections of primary source materials which relate to the history of Southern Alameda County and the East Bay.

Special Collections houses and provides access to old, rare and valuable materials which require special security, treatment, and preservation, or which are part of a designated subject collection.