Collections are classified into the following broad categories:

• University Archives contain historical resources that document the history and development of The University of Akron and its predecessor institutions.
• Special Collections documents regional (mainly Akron and Summit County) history, and other designated collecting areas. Special Collections materials include personal and family papers and historical records of local governments, businesses, and civic and community organizations. Collection strengths are the history of the rubber and polymer industry, lighter-than-air flight, and Ohio canals. Special collections also include local government records for a nine county region.
• Book collections include rare books and books documenting the history of the university, the region, and special topics.  All cataloged books are included in the UA Libraries Catalog.