One of the most important sources for understanding the evolution of an organization is its records. Athabasca University Archives contributes to the creation of the University’s collective institutional memory through the systematic identification, preservation and storage of its transitory or permanently valuable records and artifacts. In addition to creating an institutional knowledge base, the creation and application of records retention schedules throughout the organization ensures the creation, management and preservation of corporate records that are reliable for decision making, trustworthy as evidence, and provide University officials with timely access to comprehensive and accurate information for reporting purposes. Regardless of format, records created in the course of business at Athabasca University are the property of the University.

The records generated by the schools, departments, and offices of the University are the most tangible evidence of Athabasca University’s history and activities. They provide officers and staff of the University with materials necessary to understand and interpret the evolution of University policies and activities. They provide students, scholars, and researchers with essential documentation of how Athabasca University operates. The records not only document the official duties of the officers, schools, programs, and departments on campus, but also its relationships with alumni, and affiliated organizations.