Glasgow Caledonian University Archives house not only the University's papers but also the unique papers of some of Scotland’s national bodies and organisations. The subject areas covered include left wing politics, trade union activity, social work, social policy, child care and pressure group organisation and activity. It is used by an international cross domain body of researchers including the undergraduate, PhD student, academic, author, professional practicioners from various professions, and the general public following through private research. Archives are part of the University’s Research Collections and with the exception of Glasgow Caledonian University Institutional Archive, the University has been developing archive holdings since 1993. The Institutional Archive not only provides an insight into the history of Scottish education from the Victorian era through to the development of the new universities of the 1990s and beyond, but also provides information on social history relating to Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

The Archives are not only responsible for the historical continuity of the institution and the history of its predecessor bodies (which date back to 1875), but also house various deposited archives which enhance the research and curricula needs of the University. The main subject areas covered in these deposited collections are Scottish politics and political organisation, Scottish trade union activity, social work and social services in Scotland, Scotland's peace movement, Scottish ethnic issues and Scotland's involvement in apartheid and Southern African politics.