The Office for Archives and Records Management exists to collect, preserve, organize and make available for research the permanently valuable records and artifacts of this Archdiocese that reflect the work of the church, its people, and institutions. Its purpose is to promote an understanding of the history and activities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee as reflected in its records and artifacts. It is through this mission that the archives participates in the strengthening of faith in southeastern Wisconsin, the United States and the Universal Church.

The office works with parish staff, central office staff, the lay faithful and others with an interest in Catholic history to provide training, guidance and resources in a number of areas related to history and records within the archdiocese. Collections include administrative records, records of merged and closed parishes (including sacramental records), Catholic organizational records, manuscript papers and the historical records of St. Francis Seminary.