The city archive preserves written and pictorial evidence of the history of the city of Weimar from the 14th century to the present day. In addition to documents, these are primarily the files of the city administration and its official printed documents (address books, local statutes). In addition, the city archive has Weimar's local newspapers (since 1759), city plans and maps (since 1569), collections on various institutions and people as well as an image archive with photos, postcards and films.

An archive library with literature on Weimar and Thuringia is available for users of the reading room. Attached to the city archive is the administrative archive for the files after 1990, which are not yet accessible to the public. However, it also preserves important legal documents (skilled worker and employment certificates) from the period before 1990, a copy of which can be ordered upon written request in the event of personal loss.