The library of the Museum für Naturkunde is one of the most important reference library of zoology, paleontology and mineralogy in the German-speaking countries. It stocks literature from as early as from the 15th century. It furthermore focuses on the collection of literature in the fields of museum studies and history of science.

The archive comprises an extensive collection of historical documents, publications, pictures and biological models. It is a unique source for the history of the museum and the history of the scientific disciplines practised here. The collection contains a number of historical letters, collection lists, scientific sketches as well as documentation of expeditions.

The library and the archive are part of the Science Programme Collection Future.