The University Archives and Department of Special Collections (or UASC) is part of the University of Texas at Tyler’s Robert R. Muntz Library and fully supports the mission and goals of both parent institutions (i.e. The University of Texas at Tyler and the Robert R. Muntz Library). In addition, the University Archives and Department of Special Collections has two distinct functions which drive the UASC's overall goals.

First, in its function as the University Archives, it aims to document the teaching, research, community service, and administrative functions of the University and to document student life. This goal is accomplished by collecting the official archival records of the University, which are materials in any format that were generated or received by UT-Tyler's various administrative divisions and academic departments, in the conduct of their business. This definition does not include current records managed by the university’s records retention schedule. Instead it addresses those records that are no longer required for the work of the University and having been identified as having a long-term historical, cultural or educational significance.

Second, in its capacity as a special collections and manuscript repository, the Department of Special Collections (manuscripts and books) aims to develop its local history collections; these resources will be significant assets in the study and teaching of the cultural heritage of the surrounding area. The focus of the Department of Special Collections is on the history of Tyler and Smith County and, as appropriate, spreading out to include the region of Northeast Texas. The Department of Special Collections reserves the right to collect unique items of broader cultural or historical significance on a case-by-case basis.

As the University Archives and Department of Special Collections becomes a meaningful vehicle for research and interactions with the local community, it will be a source of pride for the Library and the University.