The State Archive in Kongsberg holds information on the regional and local government in Buskerud, Vestfold og Telemark counties and is also responsible for the public administration in its region. It also aims to conserve heritage material and is thus both an administrative and a cultural heritage institution. The archive includes documents dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, although most of the documents are from current times.

The National Archives aim to receive and distribute all archives of central government. They also keep important information on individuals and private initiatives such as private companies and organisations. They are thus both an administrative information body and a scientific cultural heritage institution. They have a total of 60,000 linear metres of archives, including documents dating back to the 12th century, and their stock increases by some 2,000-3,000 linear metres per annum. Most of the archives are accessible to the public, but some departments are restricted, especially those which contain private information. Annually, the Archives are visited by a clientele of 15,000, and the Archives also accept many written inquiries.