The Archive of Ruhr University

Das Bild zeigt den Grundriss eines Gebäudekonzepts aus der Planungshistorie der Gebäude MB, in dem sich heute u. a. das Universitätsarchiv befindet, und MC, die so jedoch nicht umgesetzt wurden. | The image shows the floor plan of an early layout concept for the MB building, which now houses the University Archive, and MC. The buildings‘ final layout is different, though.

Established in 1995, the University Archive preserves and indexes Ruhr University Bochum’s (RUB) vast historic records since the institution’s origins in the early 1960’s. For this purpose, we receive records which are no longer required by their respective provenance. We process these records and after their respective retention period has expired, they become accessible for research for the public.

The archive’s sources originate mainly from:

central bodies and councils as well as the administration
faculties and institutions
further establishments and eligible members connected to RUB

These historical records are complemented by files which stem from external sources, printed and written material as well as photography, film and audio documents etc. in digital and analogue form. Today, the University Archive's holdings comprise about more than 1,700 shelf meters and the amount is continuously growing.

Still, we're always looking ahead: Within the context of extensive digitalization processes, we are involved in multiple projects and work groups of the University Administration as well as on the level of the state (Digitale Hochschule NRW (state projects on digitalization), AG Hochschularchive (work group of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia's universities' and universities of applied sciences' archives).